There are several topics that constantly come to my mind and, with each new discovery, I reach a new level of understanding. One such topic is “time management.”

Levels of Time Management

Current experience shows that you can experience “time management” at several depths:

1. Knowledge of Techniques: Here, you have GTD (Getting Things Done) and classical time management techniques at your disposal. Technically, you can manage what you do, possibly using some tool or method to organize your tasks in a calendar or on a TODO list.

2. Conscious Choice of Important Things and Rejecting ‘Task Noise’: Most people do what they have to do in a habitual, unreflective manner. Even if you have mastered the techniques, it will help little if you do not consciously prioritize important tasks over trivial ones. (more)

3. Assertiveness and Communication as the Key: This is the third and highest level in my typology. You will never lose the feeling that you do not have enough time unless you are appropriately assertive—towards your boss, friends, family, yourself (sic!)—and unless you can communicate this effectively, being neither aggressive nor submissive. This statement may seem laconic, but let it serve as a koan for those more interested :)

Will there be a fourth level? It’s not out of the question ;-)

(Text translated and moved from original old blog automatically by AI. May contain inaccuracies.)