Admit it, time is one thing you wish you had more of.  As a business owner, time is your most valuable possession. I’ve come to realize that our level of success is often a direct result of how we manage our time, and overcome the frequent, often unexpected interruptions that pull us in various directions each day.

Here are 4 tips for better time management, and overall personal fulfillment.

1. We’ve all heard the saying, “Fail to plan, plan to fail.” As cliché as it may sound, it’s true. Beginning your day without a plan will lead you in circles, running from one task to another, and leave you feeling unaccomplished. Try spending time each morning, even for just a few minutes, planning how you will invest your time for that day. Having this structure will not only help you accomplish more, but will also provide a feeling of self-fulfillment.
2. After all has been said and done, interruptions are bound to happen. Have you ever considered scheduling time for interruptions? Take, for instances, the concept of “office hours.” Simply put, “office hours” are scheduled times for interruptions. While this won’t eliminate interruptions completely, making those around you aware of your planned “office hours” will help lessen the frequency of the unplanned and distracting ones.
3. An activity or conversation that’s important to your success should always have a time assigned to it. We’ve all seen, or have personally had, to-do lists that become unworkable. Rather than creating to-do lists that become longer and longer, try scheduling blocks of time where you will discipline yourself to focus on high-priority items. Determine when these blocks of time will begin and end, and stick to it.
4. Carry your schedule with you. Doing so creates the role of top-of-mind awareness, acting as a constant reminder of what you’ve planned for the day. One of the easiest ways to do this is by connected your calendar to the devices you frequently use (e.g., cell phone, laptop, tablet, iPad, etc.). This will make certain that your schedule is always with you and ensure that set appointments or tasks are not neglected.

What are some of your tips for better time management that work for you to get more done during the day?