Are you finding it difficult to find time between running your small business and managing your personal life? You are not alone. Small business owners are at the top of the labor force that that experience a lack of time. Between trying to run and grow their business, manage everyday tasks, and set goals; small business owners could use some of this top advice on how to manage their time more effectively.
1. Be True To Yourself
Words of Wisdom: “Done is better than perfect”
Most small business owners come to quickly realize that operating their own business is not as easy as they originally expected. Do the best you can with the time you have to work in and make small adjustments along the way. The best way to handle an ever going to-do list is to prioritize your tasks and regularly measure results. For projects that do not bring the return you want, apply your efforts towards more productive tasks.
2. Make Time for Yourself
Words of Wisdom: “You Can’t Expect Yourself to Work 8 Hours a Day Nonstop.”
No matter how dedicated you are or want to be, the human brain operates on an energy reserve of 60-90 minutes. Breaks are a necessity along with health snacks and time to recharge. Scheduling time for yourself will help to refocus and find new motivation and inspiration for driving creative ideas.
3. Establish Priorities
Words of Wisdom: “This philosophy should also be applied to your work.”
The common belief is 80% of your profits come from 20% of your effort. Establishing efforts that will bring you the most return will help you to organize your day ahead of time and make the most out of your time. If you have 5 different parts of your business that need prioritizing, divvy your time up to allow a certain block to be dedicated to the most vital first.
4. Stop Multitasking
Words of Wisdom: “You should really be working on your ability to focus.”
Research has proven that multitasking is less efficient than doing single tasks sequentially with increased focus. While a time crunch may force you to content with multiple tasks at once, decide if it is really worth the while in the long run for your business.
Additional Small Business Time Management Tips
1. Create a list to identify your largest time consuming tasks.
2. Keep a diary for planning your day.
3. Be adaptive to technology that makes managing everyday life easier.
4. Outsource time consuming tasks when little resources are available.
5. Delegate and communicate your tasks to others.
6. Block out distractions such as answering the phone.
7. Schedule for interruptions to meet realistically meet time interruptions.