by Aubrey Little

Created on: January 10, 2009

People strive for sustainable time management, but the sustainability factor often eludes them. It is not enough to simply read about a time management strategy and use it for a week or two, you need to actually commit to continue making use of the system even if it takes time and energy to maintain the system.

Selecting a time management strategy is very individualized. Some people will find that all they need is an electronic organizer with reminders set to allow them to stay on track, while others will require a more integrated system to stay on track. When you are shopping for a time management system you need to strategy that works for you. Here are some questions you can ask as you evaluate the various systems and philosophies available:

A. How easy the system is to utilise?

B. Does it fit with your philosophy?

C. Does the system require expensive tools?

D. Is the system applicable across social and home schedules?

E. Can you explain the system to family so that you are encouraged to make it work?

F. Can you use the system with your work scheduling tool?

G. Will the system take a great deal of time to set up or to maintain?

Once you select a time management strategy you will need to make a commitment to use the system for 21 days in a row. The continuous use of a tool or repetition of actions forms a habit. Once a good habit has been formed it will be easier for you to achieve sustainable time management on a go forward basis.

Ensuring a time management system/strategy is sustainable it is important to realize that simply selecting a time management system will not make it sustainable. You must be willing to make a commitment to actively participate in the use of a system.

Begin with the knowledge and understanding that there will be days when you feel that you simply don't have the time for using the time management tools or that you don't want to use it because you are too tired. When this happens do not fault yourself; allow yourself a day to break away from the system and make a commitment to return to the time management system the next day. It is important to note that the habit you formed over a period of 21 days can be broken after 7 days of not being used.

For continued success you must:

A: Hold yourself accountable for using the system

B. Be an active participant in managing your time by using calendars, electronic organizers or other tools that were part of the system you elected to use.

C: Refresh your memory as to why you wanted to implement the time management system when you are feeling like it takes too much energy.

Remember that time management can be sustainable if you select the right system and make a commitment to be an active and accountable participant. Whether you use a plain calendar or a expensive electronic time management system, you need to dedicate time to organize your life. Proper organization coupled with excellent and sustainable time management skills provides you an excellent foundation for success.

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