Through an informal survey, I asked a group of people about the biggest challenge they face in their businesses. Not having to get enough time to get things done was revealed as the number one complaint.
My advice to them is to remember a simple sentence: Some things you do yourself and some things you have other people do for you. Your challenge is to figure out which is which.
With Thanksgiving guests fast approaching, I’m doing a lot of house cleaning. I could have paid someone to do the job. But I’m not thrilled with the idea of strangers in my home and I’m picky about how things are cleaned. I’ll happily spend the time scrubbing.
I love a bargain but I won’t be camping out for any 4 a.m. Thanksgiving day specials at nearby department stores. I would save more but I’m not a fan of hectic shopping days and would rather spend my holiday doing other things. Instead I’d gladly pay more in shipping fees and other costs if I can do my shopping through the Internet. In this case, I’m willing to pay someone to do work.
With things like learning computer programs, I try to think about my natural talents and interests. I like photo editing, video creation, and some web design. For me these things are fun to learn and it’s time well spent.
And while I know how to create spreadsheets and use software like QuickBooks, my heart does not beat faster at the thought of working on a large project in these areas. I’d have no problem with paying an expert to do the heavy lifting. With the right partner, the work will be done faster and better.
If money is a concern, see if you can find your opposite where you can each do tasks that the other loathes.
Time management shouldn’t be seen as squeezing in all tasks but instead maximizing the things you do best. Start making choices…
