Leading entails dealing with tremendous amounts of pressure for most of the time. The constant demands can be overwhelming and stressful. If you want to avoid burning out, you have to learn how to manage your time wisely. Time management can help you accomplish the things that support your end goals. Here are some ideas on how you can make best use of your time and avoid squandering it on things that do not matter in the long run.
Keep a record of the things you need to do
Write down plans, projects, and things you need to work on. You can use a journal or notebook or download any of those mobile or computer software applications that can help you organize your thoughts. Keeping a record of the things you have to accomplish allows you to see how much work you have to do. It will help you set more realistic goals on how to achieve them.
Don’t start your day without a plan
You should have a clear idea of how your day will go the night before or soon after you wake up to start another day. Make a list of the things you have to start or complete. Anticipate delays and have back-up plans if needed.
Put the most difficult and important tasks on top of your to do list
Timing is important if you want to accomplish more. Tackle the most important and difficult tasks first or while your energy is at its peak. This can help you avoid the pressure of working on something you least enjoy when your enthusiasm is at its ebb.
Know how to delegate
Delegating is not only good for you. It is also good for the people who step up to take over some of the responsibilities you are unloading. Great leaders are also among those who know what, when, and how to delegate. Leaders who delegate not only free up a chunk of their precious time. They are also able to identify people who have the potential to become leaders based on how they handle the responsibilities given to them.
Take time for stress relief
Some days can be busier than others regardless of how well you plan your activities. Manage stress using relaxation techniques that provide stress relief. Find out what relaxation strategies work for you and use them when things become too stressful.