Are you a time-tamer or a time-waster? To get an idea of your current level of time literacy, answer the following questions using the guide below:
1 = Almost Never
2 = Once in a while
3 = Frequently
4 = All the time
1. I create a daily to-do list and then prioritize it. ______
2. Whenever possible I do my most important tasks early in the day. _____
3. The state of my desktop inspires me to get work done. _____
4. I have specific, written goals, for my business and personal life. ____
5. I arrive at meetings on time and prepared. ____
6. I delegate whatever I can. ____
7. My in-basket is under control and I process the work in it regularly. ____
8. I close my office door or take other measures to prevent interruptions when I need to focus. ____
9. I know when and how to say no to other people’s requests. ____
10. I meet my project deadlines. ____
11. I can find any information I need within 5 minutes. ____
12. I spend less than 30 percent of my day putting out fires. ____
13. I keep my email inbox organized and up-to-date. ____
14. My office files are neat, organized and up-to-date. ____
15. I tackle difficult or unpleasant tasks without delay. ____
Total Score: ____
50 – 60: Congratulations you are a time management superstar! You obviously understand the core principles of time management and have been able to translate them into everyday actions. To move to the next level, choose one area above that you would like to enhance and use the information in this book or take a class to help you further develop that skill.
35 – 49: You have a good grasp on your time, but are losing energy and focus because of a few bad time habits. Review the questions above and focus your attention on the areas where you scored a 2 or lower. Consider reaching out to someone you work with (and trust) to help you identify when you are caught in non-productive time behaviors. Find the specific ways in this book that address the areas you need to improve.
15 – 34: Your time literacy could use some education. You may be experiencing procrastination, overwhelm or burnout due to poor time management. Pick one item from the list above and using the principles, practices and exercises in this book, work on it until your score in that area has increased by a point.
Buy a copy of Time Management In an Instant
Karen Leland and Keith Bailey are the bestselling authors of six books including Time Management In An Instant: 60 Ways to Make the Most of Your Day. They are the co-founders of Sterling Consulting Group, which helps organizations and individuals learn how to fight distraction and find their focus in a wired world. For more information please contact: kleland@scgtraining.com
