Making Time to Do the Right Things

Time — there never seems to be enough of it, especially in today’s demanding business environment.

Amidst the chaos of deadlines, client expectations, and the ever-growing pile of emails, it’s easy to lose sight of efforts that may not be urgent today but are essential for long-term success.

Here are some practical strategies to ensure you’re not just getting things done, but doing the "right" things.

1. Plan with Purpose

Taking time to plan may feel like a luxury, but it’s an investment in your effectiveness. The Eisenhower Decision Matrix is an excellent framework for categorizing and prioritizing your time commitments.

Begin each week by outlining your key objectives—not just tasks. Use your calendar or other time management tools to focus on priorities that align with your immediate and long-term goals.

By clearly identifying the urgency and importance of each task, you can avoid falling into the trap of prioritizing activities that are urgent but less important.

2. Empower Your Team

Your team is one of your greatest assets. Leverage their skills and insights by delegating tasks thoughtfully. This allows team members to take ownership of specific areas, freeing up your time while providing valuable development opportunities for them.

3. Communicate Transparently

Regular check-ins with key stakeholders are critical for aligning expectations and avoiding missteps that could cost time and trust. These check-ins also create opportunities to identify and address potential issues before they escalate into emergencies. Transparent communication is a cornerstone of effective leadership.

4. Pause to Reflect

In the whirlwind of daily demands, it’s easy to lose sight of the bigger picture. Take time to reflect on whether your practices align with your mission, vision, values, and strategic imperatives. Are you nurturing key relationships and focusing on what truly matters?

Reflection doesn’t just ground you—it helps you grow as a leader.

Finding time to focus on the right things isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it. Take Yoda’s advice: “Do or do not; there is no try.”

Prioritizing the right actions at the right time elevates your effectiveness and leaves a lasting legacy.

What’s one step you can take today to prioritize what truly matters? Whatever it is, the time to act is now.