We all know how it goes, life gets busy. It is important that you manage your time effectively and continue to work on your objectives. While we share time management tips on our other blog we want to share how you can use your Prompt Journal to maximise your productivity and focus when it comes to your career objectives.
01. Write an Activity Log
You may already do this. However, for the purpose of this exercise, we encourage you to keep an activity log/list for how you are spending your time over a short period. We suggest a couple of weeks. All you need to do is simply write a list of everything that you are doing each day.
02. Write Down (again) your objectives
Remind yourself of your Career Objectives. Write down up to five things that you expect to discuss at your next performance review or that you have as one of your objectives since your last performance review or appraisal. Make these specific.
03. Compare the two
Now compare the activity list with your objectives. Mark anything that you spent time on that has a direct/positive effect or contribution towards your specific objectives or goals that you had written down.
04. Review your to-do list
Then take a forward looking approach and review your to-do list or schedule and highlight any tasks on your to-do list that will progress you towards your specific objectives or goals.
05. Review the results (and take action)
Finally, review the results of this exercise. What are the results telling you? Are you spending enough time on your objectives? Too much time? Too little time? Do you need to adjust your routine and schedule in time to keep you moving forward? If so, take action.
It is important to make sure you are spending enough time on yourself and your own goals (and check that you are not spending all your time furthering other people’s objectives).
Repeat this exercise anytime you feel that you are not sure how you are spending your time, or feel like you are not making enough progress on your personal goals. It can also be useful to do this exercise as part of your preparation for check-ins and appraisals.