Personal Effectiveness:  3 Easy Ways To Immediately Make Better Use Of Your Time

by:  Ernest Saco

In this ever changing world full of distractions and growing responsibilities, it becomes harder and harder to make best use of our time and energy.  Even when we think we are being effective, we could be tricking ourselves into thinking that we’re being effective people.  But in reality, we may blind to our ineffectiveness. To really figure this out we first need to figure out what does effective mean and how can we use this to increase our personal productivity (which is probably what we’re all in search of).

Let’s break this down.  If we look at the definition of effective; effective meaning “successful in producing a desired or intended result.”  Which brings me to tip #1:

1.  Clearly Define Your Desired Result

It’s so easy to say “I want to start my own business.”  However, what does that mean?  What do you truly desire out of your business?  Anyone can start their own business by registering an LLC at their state’s Corporation Commission but is that really what you were intending?  If so, congratulations, you’ve started your own business (although it’s a sad excuse for one).  Rather, break it down to be specific, measurable, attainable, relevant & time-bound – or S.M.A.R.T.!  During this process be sure to identify what your motivation is as well.  This motivation will be the driving force in increasing your assertiveness.  Goal setting is crucial and will allow you to visualize and provide you a clearly defined destination.

2.  Be Intentional About Your Time

I can’t stress the importance of time management enough!  Why is time management important?  Because time is literally the most valuable asset we have.  Time is finite, you can’t buy more of it, you can’t get it back no matter what you do, so you have to manage your time very wisely.  I’m a husband and a father of two children under the age of 3.  I work full time for a software company, I have church responsibilities, and a social life.  In order for me to add a side business on top of all of that, I have to be very intentional about my time.  If I’m not working or spending time with my family, I’m learning about what I can do to help improve my business, I’m listening to books about personal growth and development, I’m doing everything possible to improve my personal skills.  If I’m driving, I’m making the most use of that time by listening to relevant podcasts, when I’m eating lunch I make sure that I’m with at least one person so I can have a meaningful conversation.  Keep a calendar and carve out time blocks for you to work on your business, side business, or project.

3.  Self Reflect Often

This was a game changer for me.  Self reflection is often overlooked but it is incredibly important when assessing our personal progress and where our personal skills are on the “personal effectiveness spectrum” if you will. Take a look at the most important aspects of your life. For example, family, friends, work, etc. and begin to assess your satisfaction in those areas. Rate your satisfaction as well as your competency on how you can improve your satisfaction. If you find there are areas where you are unsatisfied, but you KNOW how to improve them, then set aside time in your calendar to improve those areas. This will increase your overall happiness and your overall personal effectiveness.