subject: Time Poor? Make sure you're working on the RIGHT activities! [print this page] Time Poor? Make sure you're working on the RIGHT activities!
Do you struggle to "find" the time to get everything done in your business? The to-do list of a solopreneur can certainly seem never-ending as there is always something to do.
Creating and launching your programs; marketing; writing articles and blog posts; working with clients; business development; social networking; administration; filing; speaking to prospects; presenting; attending networking events; sending out invoices; paying bills; updating the website; and on it goes. Can you relate?
Last week I shared a quote with my Twitter friends, which I'd like to share with you:
"You will never find' time, you must make it." -- Charles Buzton.
Thought provokingyes?!
After reading this quote last year I took a step back from my business and re-evaluated my entire approach to how I was managing my time.
Not only did I look at HOW I was managing my time but also WHAT activities I was spending my time on.
The results were surprising. When looking at the tasks that were keeping me busy I realised these activities were not business development or income-generating activities (such as marketing and product/program development) but were administrative duties that I should have been outsourcing.
I knew something had to be done to prevent me drowning in administrative and other activities that were keeping me stuck working in' my business.
Here's an exercise I used to help me get clear and focused and that allowed me to make time to start working on' my business.
I encourage you to complete this exercise as well, as not only will it help you make time - it will help you make time for the IMPORTANT tasks that will help you reach your business and income goals, much faster.
Step 1: Draw a table with three columns.
Step 2: List ALL of the activities that you currently do in your business in the middle column.
Step 3: Select 3 to 5 items (no more) from that the list that:
(a) Gets you closer to your prospects (and money), and
(b) Demands your direct involvement. .
Move these tasks to the column to the left. Label this column "My Unique Talents".
For instance, marketing is a function that is very important and something that I know requires my direct involvement. This includes writing articles and blog posts and networking online through my social network platforms.
These activities are what will get me closer to my prospects and therefore demands my direct input. And, as these activities exude my brand voice' and involve direct communication and interaction with prospects and clients, I would not consider outsourcing these activities.
Step 4: Review all of the things that are still in the middle column and move them over to the right hand column. Label this column: "My Support Team".
