“Time management is a misnomer. The challenge is to manage ourselves." – Stephen Covey
I love 2x2 frameworks for their simplicity and clarity. One of my favorites is Steven Covey's Time Management Matrix.
The two axes are...
✈︎ Urgency: Tasks demanding immediate action or attention.
✈︎ Importance: Tasks aligned with your values and long-term goals.
Now, let’s dive into each quadrant...
1. The "Do" Quadrant (Important and Urgent)
This quadrant commands your immediate attention. It’s full of tasks you must tackle head-on: deadlines, fires to put out, and pressing customer demands. Spending too much time here often points to inadequate planning and can lead to burnout. Minimize your "Do" list by proactively addressing important tasks before they become urgent.
2. The "Decide" Quadrant (Important but Not Urgent)
This is where the magic happens: strategy and planning. Stephen Covey refers to these as the "Big Rocks"—crucial projects that shape your future. Dedicate time here to define your purpose, goals, and objectives. Prioritize self-development, relationships, and your physical and mental health to enjoy a better work life.
3. The "Divert" Quadrant (Urgent but Not Important)
These tasks do not significantly contribute to your long-term success. Don't get distracted by other people's priorities, emails, phone calls, interruptions, or reports that don't advance your mission. Delegate these whenever possible. In Covey language, this is where you find the pebbles and the sand.
4. The "Delete" Quadrant (Not Urgent and Not Important)
Simply eliminate these tasks from your schedule. Red means stop. Avoid busywork, toxic relationships, unproductive meetings, and activities that add no value. These are time wasters that can wreak havoc on your productivity and well-being.
Don't major in the minors.
Too many people spend their time working around the edges. Tweaking your logo or brand colors won't move the needle if no one sees them. Focus on the big rocks. Get your logo in front of more people who need your product. Don't rearrange the chairs on the deck if your ship is sinking.
Focus
When you find yourself bogged down in the "Do" quadrant, ask yourself "What’s the most productive thing I could be doing right now?" Focus on what truly matters to build a business (and a life) that works for you! ✈️
👉 Inspired by Steven Covey's book, The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People
