5 Time Management Tips for Entrepreneurs

[toc]Pursuing a successful career as an entrepreneur requires more than the ability to communicate and think quickly on your feet. Having the patience and the skills to manage your time are also significant facts that come into play any time you are running a business of your own. Knowing how to manage your time properly with a few entrepreneur tips can ultimately allow you to get more out of your business and the path you are taking.

Manage Your Time With a Book or Application

To get started with time management as an entrepreneur, choosing to use an appointment book or downloading a time management application is highly recommended. Managing your calendar manually or with your phone or computer can help you to keep track of appointments, interviews, conferences and even specific times that you want to set aside for leisure activities. Using a tool such as a downloadable application or software is a way to access your calendar and schedule on-the-go to always stay on top of the time you have available.

Engage Yourself

Any time you are in a task or taking time out of your day for work or other activities, be sure to fully engage yourself in the thoughts, opinions and progress taking place. If you pledge to engage yourself at least 50% of the time all of your time you will help to dramatically increase the amount of time that is not wasted. Staying mentally alert and aware of your actions at all times can also help you to be more involved and focused on any projects at hand.

Wake Early to Plan

Taking 30 minutes out of each of your mornings is a great way to get a jump start on your day while ensuring you are managing your time as efficiently as possible. Spend the first 30 minutes of your morning reviewing or creating your schedule for the day. It is also highly recommended to get morning exercise or meditation in if you have a long work day ahead of you with plenty of to-do tasks. Waking up earlier will also allow you to relax before getting to work, helping to reduce the amount of stress you feel each day.

Say “No” to Distractions

As an entrepreneur you may often encounter distractions from family members, friends and even strangers on the street during a busy work day. Because of the luxury of “being your own boss”, it can be difficult to convey that you need to focus and just because you are an entrepreneur does not mean you no longer work. Saying no to distractions is an essential part of becoming a successful entrepreneur and learning how to properly manage your time. Turn off cell phones and log out of all social media accounts when you are working to maintain your productivity levels throughout the day without interruption.

Set a Time for Breaks 

Setting a time for breaks during a busy day is just as essential as ensuring you have your appointment book or program filled at all times. Taking a few minutes in between meetings, appointments or places you need to travel can help you to avoid feeling overwhelmed or burnt out. Small breaks during busy days can leave you feeling refreshed and ready to take on more.

Using a few time management tips can help to keep you focused while also allowing you to complete projects regularly and on a timed schedule. The more in-tune you are with keeping track of your time and schedule, the easier it is to ensure you are making the most of it.

Share your comments below!

 Sources for images: Flickr