Deadlines looming? Inbox bulging? Not waving but drowning? When there aren’t enough hours in the day, use these tactics to get more done in less time:


Stop and think. It’s easy to panic and launch into tasks without considering the most sensible course of action. A few moments spent reflecting and planning will save crucial time later on.

Avoid action illusion. What can feel like useful preparation (colour-coding your project plan, re-ordering your to-do list – again) could be glorified procrastination. Once you have decided on your first task, stop organising and start doing.

Manage your energy. Identify what times of the day you are most productive, then map tasks to this curve. If you’re a morning person, tackle the new performance management process first thing; if you take a while to get going, start with more mundane tasks.

Conduct fleeting meetings. If a meeting seems to be wandering, bring it back on track. Ask: “What do we want to achieve?” Then decide together the most time-efficient way of getting there.

Use dead time. Delayed on the train? Early for a meeting? Keep a list of projects with you at all times and turn productivity black spots into hot spots.

Let go. Could someone else draft the new benefits scheme or attend the supplier meeting? When others offer help and expertise, swallow your pride and take it.

Say the magic word. “No” is the most useful word in time management. Say it politely, clearly and as often as you need to.