2. PRIORITISE AND SET DEADLINES
Write your goals on a list you can keep close at hand during the day, at least until you grow accustomed to
your new system. Assign incoming tasks according to a priority system: 1, 2, 3 or A, B, C, or even a colour system.
Use whichever you prefer, and add as many levels of importance as you think you need, without overcomplicating
the system. Unnecessary complication can add to stress.
When preparing your weekly schedule, make sure the tasks you work on during the day are the ones with the
highest priority. Fill in time blocks to complete these tasks first, then move to your second priority. If you still
have time (keeping in mind to leave contingency space for the unexpected), then move on to your third category.
If not, see if you can delegate the task to someone else. If not, avoid committing to the task.
Remember: each time you are given a new assignment, analyse it for importance and prioritize it accordingly.
If you have an existing task or to do list for this week, prioritize it now.
3. SET DEADLINES
Now that you’ve got your goals, priorities, and schedule clear, review
your deadlines. Chances are, you’ve already been given deadlines for most
of your tasks. If not, make your own, taking into consideration your
priority criteria. If you let tasks float around without being formally added
to your schedule, odds are you’ll procrastinate on them and they won’t get
done until you’re asked about them…and by that time, you’ll most likely
be expected to deliver ASAP, causing unnecessary stress.
