One of the most frequent topics that arises in coaching leaders is time management. As you might expect, this topic is large and not always easy to wrap your arms around.
The challenge of time management may be associated with a manager lacking focus and allowing everyone else’s priorities to become their urgent matter. Or it may stem from an inability to effectively map and execute a plan to get the important business done when it needs to be done, no matter what else is happening.
“So much of our time is consumed by non-productive activities such as group meetings.”
So much or our time is consumed by non-productive activities such as group meetings. We are all too familiar with meetings being called for the sake of having a meeting because this what we have done for the past x years on a regular basis. Without careful diligence, holding a meeting on the same day of the week or month or quarter becomes a part of the organization’s culture and not necessarily for the benefit of keeping the business goals and interpersonal dynamics moving ahead.
So here’s a radical idea – what if you were to deliberately set aside a meeting free day once a week? Imagine what is possible in carving out time that is dedicated to working on or completing tasks and executing on business of strategic importance? Imagine how relationships within your organization and with your client group can be fostered and enhanced.
I can personally testify to the benefit of setting aside one day of each week to get business of importance to me, done. In my case, Friday is the day of the week set aside for writing and research and/or business development – no kidding.
Oh I know, you can dismiss this challenge by thinking – “hey Colin is self employed and can easily put aside a day to do his thing!” Yes and I share the temptations and the challenge of time creep or feeling guilty if clients ask for coaching time on a Friday. By holding to the commitment of making Friday’s as my no-meeting day of the week, I do feel that I am moving myself and my business ahead.
As you read the enclosed article from HBR ask “What is the worst that can happen if you carve out eight hours each week to do what is important for me and my organization?”
Recommended Reading:
- Harvard Business Review – “How to Establish a Meeting-Free Day Each Week”
- Death by Meetings and The Advantage by Patrick Lencioni