4 Steps to Take Back Your Time
- Leslie Speas
- Jul 13
- 2 min read
Do you ever feel like your day is running you instead of the other way around? You start with a to-do list and good intentions, only to be derailed by meetings, emails, and unexpected interruptions.
You're not alone, and you're not failing. You're just stuck in the time traps that impact so many of us.
But the good news? You can reclaim your time. And it starts with a few simple shifts in how you approach your day.
If you follow me, you know how I love acronyms and alliteration. So, here we go with another one!
4 Ps FOR RECLAIMING YOUR TIME
1. Prioritize What Matters Most
Not all tasks are created equal. Ask yourself: What are the top priorities in my role? What contributes most to the purpose and success of the business?
Use tools like:
✅ The 80/20 Rule: Focus on the 20% of activities that drive 80% of your results.
✅ The Eisenhower Matrix: Categorize tasks by urgency and importance to avoid getting stuck in the “busy” trap. The goal is to focus on Quadrant II tasks as much as possible and minimize III and IV.
2. Plan With Purpose
A good plan turns a chaotic week into a productive one.
Use strategies like:
Time-blocking: Schedule focused work time and guard it like a meeting.
The Weekly Preview: Reflect on wins, set priorities, and anticipate roadblocks before Monday.
Daily Kickoff: Identify your “Big 3” for the day—3 must-do priorities that move the needle.
3. Protect Your Focus
Focus is your most valuable resource—and it's under constant attack. Interruptions, emails, and meetings are inevitable. But how you respond is a choice.
Try these:
Set clear boundaries for availability and interruptions.
Practice saying “no” with professionalism and empathy.
Encourage team members to bring solutions, not just problems.
Use delegation as a tool to empower others and lighten your load.
4. Put It into Action
Knowledge without action changes nothing!
Now that you’ve learned some practical strategies, make a commitment:
Choose one thing to delegate this week.
Block 30 minutes tomorrow for your most important task.
Try a productivity tool like Trello, Notion, or even a simple timer to keep you on track.
⏳ Your Time Advantage Starts Now
When you prioritize with clarity, plan with intention, and protect your focus, you shift from surviving the day to leading it.
Small changes. Big results.
Want help making this stick? I offer training and tools to help managers manage time, people, and priorities more effectively. Let’s connect.
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