Successful Time Management For Dummies, 2nd Edition

Chapter 24

Ten Time-Efficient Habits

In This Chapter

• Getting a good start on your day
• Making time for health
• Focusing on what matters most
• Working with a good system

Time management isn't a talent you're born with. You may need an amazing set of DNA to sing opera, win a triathlon, or get signed by the New York Giants, but with time management, you can work your way up to champion level without having the efficiency gene. Successful time management is a matter of habit. And in this chapter, I present you with the ten best habits to adopt for winning at time efficiency.

Start Your Day Early

Most people are more productive in the morning. That's logical: After sleep, you have more energy, you're more alert, and you've had less “day,” when everything that could go wrong does. No doubt, a half-hour first thing in the morning is easily worth two hours at the end of the day.

When I have deadlines to hit and projects to complete, I set my alarm clock for a couple of hours earlier than normal. That's much more effective for me than trying to squeeze in the time in the evening. I'm generally too tired to focus well. I may go to bed as early as 8:00 p.m. in order to get up at 3:00 a.m. to put in some dedicated time. The house is quiet. I'm refreshed. My mind is alert. And my productivity is at its peak.

You don't have to set your alarm for the crack of dawn. An extra hour can buy you plenty ...