Time Management can be defined as the process of skillfully applying time to finish and perfect
a specific activity within time constraint (Harris, 2008, p.22). The main purpose of time
management is to allow individuals to get more and better work done during shorter time frame.
According to Fleming (2011) effective time management is directly linked to an understanding
of the difference between efficiency and effectiveness. Fleming (2011) further went on to state
that while efficiency involves completing specified tasks in a right manner, effectiveness relates
to identifying the right tasks to be accomplished in the first place. In Carla Crutsinger 1994
book, Thinking Smarter: Skills for Academic Success, she defined effective time management as
the process of:
1. Setting goals
2. Prioritizing those goals
3. Deciding how much time to allocate to specific tasks
4. Adjusting plans as they change
5. Revisiting the goals and priorities regularly
6. Observing results
Felton and Sims (2009), on the other hand, strongly relate the idea of time management with
ones self management. The authors emphasize that the focus of time management is priorities
and stems from self-management. Self-management is the powerhouse of time management
(Felton and Sims, 2009, p.21).Zeller (2008) further developed this idea and emphasizes the
significance of having an effective personal system of time management, He explains that
effective time management involves more than just good intent and self-knowledge (Zeller,
2008, p.14), but that a precise processes needs to be put in place in order to engage in time
management in an efficient manner. The Covey time management grid can help person to
manage their available time more efficiently. Coveys matrix allows individuals to organize their
priorities much better than before. This concept includes using four quadrants to determine the
priority of a task was introduced by Steven Covey through his book, The Seven Habits of Highly
Effective People. Coveys structure makes use of four different quadrants that allows persons
to prioritize tasks in relation to their importance and urgency, helping you to decide whether you
need to address a task immediately or if you can postpone it.
Managing our time effectively and efficiently has many benefits for both the business and its
employees. When workers working hours are managed effectively, employees tend to be
happier, more creative and are less likely to be burnt out. This benefits the business by lowering
absenteeism and turnover rates and more productivity, innovation and employee advocacy which
enhance the company reputation and employee recruitment. Personal benefits include reducing
stress and frustration, helping you to become more confident, and feel better about yourself
(Mancini, 2007, p.viii). You also feel a sense of empowerment from getting things done and
having the time to enjoy lifes simple pleasures (Seaward, 2011, p.134). You feeling less
stressed (Bhugra and Howes, 2007, Brott, 2008, Christie, 2009), opportunity to follow personal
interests (Felton and Sims, 2009), getting more things done (Green and Skinner, 2005, Mustric,
2008), relating to others in more positive manner (Bhugra and Howes, 2007), and feeling better
about self (Brott, 2008). Dr Mallary tytel, president of healthy Workplace in Bolton,
Connecticut categories barriers to effective communication as either internal or external factors.
Internal factors include discipline and procrastination; external barriers include factors such as
workload, Job and workplace constraints and availability of resources. Time management differs
as it relates to cultures and is interpreted differently globally. In the work place time management
is a very crucial as it can determine whether the company fails or succeeds.
For activity
Bibliography
Zeller, D. (2008) Successful Time Management for Dummies For Dummies
Fleming, I. (2011) The Time Management Pocketbook 6th edition, Management Pocketbooks
Covey, S. (1990) The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People Fireside
Bhugra, D. & Howes, O. (2007) Handbook of Psychiatric Trainees RCPsych Publications
Harris, J. (2008) Time Management 100 Success Secrets: The 100 Most Asked Questions on
Skills, Tips, Training, Tools and Techniques for Effective Time Management Lulu Publications
