Most ‘influencers’ can’t relate to you

A quick tour through Instagram, TikTok or Facebook and you’ll find plenty of time management “gurus”. The problem is that most of them can’t relate to you. And, you likely can’t relate to them. Someone talking about a four hour workweek isn’t the right teacher for a mom of four kids who is trying hard just to get to the end of the day. The best influencers on your time management are common-sense folks who have little to sell and plenty to share.

Most people have more on their plates than they think

Each of us carries around a lot of mental weight. We worry. We keep track. We forget. We remember. We worry some more. Add on our work, family and other commitments and what was once a clear mind becomes a hot mess. The average person has between 10-20 “projects” that they are responsible for.

Most people want simple, cheap solutions

My wife Cary is a great example of the person that I’m writing to in my newsletter. I think of her as I write because I think she is like a lot of us- hard working, ethical and distracted by all that’s on her plate. Work and home is a lot for anyone to manage. Cary wants inexpensive, simple apps to use- apps and tools that help her remember things and stay on top of her commitments. If a system is too complicated, it’s likely not the right tool for you.

On most days, we juggle our commitments to the best of our abilities

No one wakes up wanting to be distracted and tired. Yet, that’s how most of us churn through our weeks. We do the best we can and limp to the weekend, hoping for a bit left in the tank. The good news is that leisure and pace can play an important role in how we proceed through our week.

Copying someone else’s time management strategy is probably not going to work

Each of us is different. Our personalities, work experiences, fluency with technology- we bring our own unique styles to our life and work. You don’t need to replicate someone else’s approach to organization or time management. You can create something that works just for you.

Time management doesn’t have to be secular

The Catholic Church has a lot to say when it comes to work. The Church has published entire books dedicated to the dignity of work and the particular ways that we can participate in God’s creative power. You can bring your faith with you as you manage your life’s commitments, attend meetings, complete tasks and enjoy your personal life.

There’s another way to live and work- it’s time management made easy

Time management made easy is how I describe my approach to productivity. Simple, easy, practical, affordable… and most importantly, personal to you. You can design an approach to working and living that feels right, is enjoyable and helps you keep God at the center of all you do.

If this set of principles resonates with you, why not subscribe to my free newsletter, Faith & Focus at Work. When you do, you’ll get access to my FREE PDF and set of video interviews, The Five Easiest Ways to Prepare for Your Week.