Time management is an art. It takes organization and commitment in order to properly maintain a schedule, stay on task and meet important deadlines. The reality is that everyone misses an appointment now and then, but the goal is to avoid that ever happening at all costs.
So, how good are you at effective time management? Here is a short time management quiz with only one simple question that will help determine just how well you manage (or mismanage) your time:
1. When you have an appointment, you usually arrive:
a. At least 10 minutes early, if not more.
b. Right on time.
c. A couple minutes late.
If you answered (a) your time management is impeccable. Effective time management means staying on top of your schedule and showing respect for those the appointment is with by not making them wait for you. You realize that arriving early not only shows respect, but it shows professionalism, organization and commitment. All in a matter of minutes!
If you answered (b) then your time management skills are good, but not great. Being on time can be considered late. Especially when those you are meeting with are prepared and waiting for you. However, being on time is hardly a negative quality. You should aim to arrive at appointments no less than five to 10 minutes ahead of schedule each and every time. This will ensure you are almost never late and can even allow time for travel or unexpected delays.
If you answered (c) then you are in serious need of improvement to your time management skills. If you are chronically late to appointments most of the time, you are most likely not putting your best foot forward, or at least not in the eyes of those you have kept waiting. In addition, being late may mean you may have too much on your plate, but usually, it just means that you need to take better care of your calendar and pay closer attention to your overall time management. Try taking a step back and consider altering the time you spend and how you prepare for appointments. You may need to lighten your load as well as allow yourself 10 to 15 extra minutes to get ready and actually get to your appointments. You will be surprised how much of a difference a few short minutes can make.
With just one short, simple question, it is easy to see just how well you manage your time. It seems crazy, but it is true. Why? Because keeping appointments and determining your thoughts on what it means to be on time speaks volumes to the type of time manager (or time mismanager) you truly are.
If you find yourself in a position where you are in need of better time management, you may want to consider investing in some time management books to give you some tips on how to improve your ability to manage your time. Once your time management skills are in order, your work and your life will follow suit!