Have you ever wondered how the top performers get more done? I’ll let you in on their secret: prioritization.
When we look at things like our email, to-do lists, and calendar, there’s a difference between how we manage them.
First off, many people believe that email is what you should be working on, but really at the core of it, emails received is a function of emails sent. When you finally get down to “inbox zero,” you’re really just teeing your inbox up to fill up again by the end of the day. It’s a vicious cycle that will really keep you from being productive.
Your to-do list is what you believe you should work on. While it’s effective to write everything out and check things off as you go, there’s really a more efficient way to organize it all — and it’s by using a calendar.
Your calendar is your best friend when it comes to prioritizing your day.
I’ve spoken with numerous high achievers, CEOs, business leaders, and the like, and the one thing they have in common is that their day is managed according to their calendar. Down to meetings, phone calls, projects, and even emails — it all gets a specific slot with a specific allotted time.
In terms of prioritization, your calendar is your number one, to-do list is number two, and then email is number three.
Take control of your day. If you can own the day, you ultimately own your life.
