Brainstorm. The first step is to compile a list of everything that needs to be done. This includes chores for clients, tasks for yourself, and other things that must be completed in order for your business to progress. Exhaust whatever task you believe you need to do.
Determine the time-sensitivity of your system. Some chores must be completed immediately, while others may wait. Take your brainstormed list and divide the chores into two categories: urgent and non-urgent. Things that are urgent are those that have a deadline.
Determine the significance. In addition to knowing what’s important in terms of time, consider the importance of each task. A task is important if it complements your company’s broader vision and larger goals and priorities.
Some chores are not as critical, yet they must be completed. You may even discover chores that aren’t actually that critical and can be removed from the list. Priority should be assigned to both the urgent and non-urgent lists.
Understand Your Limits. If you assign yourself an unrealistic number of chores to perform, you may become overwhelmed. Be realistic about your ability to complete tasks in a certain length of time. Overburdening your to-do list might paralyze you and cause you to accomplish less.
Set time constraints for tasks. If you tend to spend too much time on a task in pursuit of perfection, you should set time limits for yourself so that you don’t focus on one item for too long while neglecting others. That may imply letting go of some of your perfectionism.
Establish deadlines. When you believe you have all the time in the world to complete a project, you are less likely to complete it in a timely manner. Set deadlines to drive yourself to finish in less time and get more done.
Schedule time for personal projects. There will be moments when you want to accomplish things for your business that aren’t particularly critical at the time. Don’t forget to schedule time for yourself to work on projects you enjoy. You will be more productive if you are content and happy.
When you understand how to prioritize your job, you’ll know which activities must be completed immediately and which can wait. You’ll end up getting more done and feeling better about your work.
