From Tablets, Androids, I-Phones, laptops and desktops; sync, merge, simplify and streamline to Apps, Apps, Apps and more Apps!
In our world of connectivity there seems to be an application for everything. Designers tout the ease, convenience and productivity that can be found with a simple press of the download link. Many people are found swimming in options and using valuable space on their devices, downloading programs similar to those they have previously loaded and forgotten about (almost as quickly as the download was complete).
The desire for people to find a way to organize time and find a superior use for their constant connection leads me to believe time management and organization is even more important today than it has ever been. Individuals are working harder and downsizing has left many doing two-four times as much as in the past. The help system designers promise leaves most feeling unsatisfied.
I have found that time management is less about an application and more about commitment and staying dedicated to a system….any system. The best system for me is series of blocks and several tools that work in tandem with one another. This system helps me to organize my day, week, month and year and is simple enough to be flexible with an ever changing schedule.
I utilize three tools: an account management software, on-line calendar and desk-top (two page week) calendar to organize my work life.
Account Management Software --- this is my brain and work load for any given week, it tells me who I need to call, what my objectives are and is the framework for all of my activities.
On-Line Calendar --- this is linked to my cellular device and is where I place all appointments, activities and meetings.
Desk-Top Calendar --- this is where I keep notes, activities I would like to accomplish in a week, and non-time-sensitive reminders.
I use these three tools together and separately; each one is important to making sure I do what I say I will do, when I say I will do it.
On Monday, I take 15 minutes to look at the calendar, what does my week look like, do I need to move anything around? Each day, I take 5 minutes at the end of the day, did I complete the scheduled tasks, what needs to be moved forward…I never let tasks age, if not completed, it is moved forward…. On Friday, I take 15 minutes at the end of the day, how did the week go, what does next week look like?
This is my system and has been for many years, it is the key for me to handle the craziness often found in the hospitality industry. Some call me neurotic, I just call myself organized!
Your system will likely be different, I write this to encourage you to find something that works for you, keep it simple and something you are likely to stay committed to (don’t get too complicated). Give yourself one month of dedication and make tweaks along the way, don’t wait until the new year, start today….by the beginning of 2013 you will be streamlined and ready to forge ahead of your competition!
Tanna McTee
Grand Sierra Resort
http://youtu.be/clRKT08k6ZA