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Time Management-Not-to-do list

"With so many options and choices nowadays, you will have to start saying no to some of the good things in order to accommodate the best things."
- Harold Taylor

A couple of weeks ago, I was talking about the need to focus on what is important rather than what is urgent. One of things I suggested was putting much less weight on the ole "To-do list," as this list is normally composed of urgent things.

I recommend that all entrepreneurs (okay this is going to be a pain) keep a log in 15-minute increments of how they use their time every day for two weeks. Going through this process is so very useful even though painful. First, with this process, you get a feeling of how your days go in terms of time allocation and you learn to filter out time-wasters. A time log let's you evaluate your effectiveness in the area of time management in a concrete fashion.

After you have maintained this log for two weeks, I encourage you to establish a Not-to-Do List. A not-to-do list is simply an attention getting device to focus your attention away from time consuming non-beneficial time wasters so that you can put your attention on the most important elements in your business. The two-week log will really makes you aware of the things that are non-productive and time absorbing.

Here are some of the items currently in my "not-to-do list." Obviously, my list has evolved and will further evolve. It is important to note that this list must encompass all parts of your life (work, health, and spiritual). You should review and revise this list periodically.

1. I will not fully book my time each day so I can savor some time to plan, think and vision about the future.
2. I will not say "yes" automatically to people who ask me to serve on various committees.
3. I will not have two-hour lunches.
4. I will not rush to get to work in the morning.
5. I will not do tasks that can be done by my staff.
6. I will not focus on those projects that have very little value to the Jim Moran Institute.
7. I will not constantly check my email.
8. I will not be constantly available for calls so I can concentrate on what is important.
9. I will not agree to write another book.
10. I will not fill my calendar before scheduling exercise and family time.
11. I will not eat high glycemic foods (breads and sugars).
12. I will not use my spiritual reading time for other matters.

My list forces me to achieve more balance in my life. With more balance, I am a much happier camper.

Not-do-lists really will help you focus on what is important rather than what is urgent. There is even a page of not-to-lists at http://www.expage.com/lindsaycancount. Now go start that time log and your not-to-do list.