Welcome to #MakeItHappenMonday! Today, let’s dive into the power of effective time management, a skill that can transform the way you plan, strategise, and ultimately achieve success in your artistic endeavours.

The Gift of Time: A Level Playing Field

Remember, every day is a gift of 86,400 seconds. It’s the ultimate equalizer. Whether you’re just starting out or are an experienced artist, how you utilise these seconds can significantly shape your journey towards success and fulfillment.

Ask Yourself:

• How are you allocating your time?
• Are you dedicating enough moments to your personal and professional growth?

The Key to Unlocking Your Potential: Stephen Covey’s Time Management Matrix

Stephen Covey’s Time Management Matrix, from his influential book ‘The 7 Habits of Highly Successful People’, offers a simple yet profound method to organize your daily tasks. This tool can revolutionize your productivity and steer you closer to your goals.

*Scroll cover image for diagram of Time Management Matrix.

The Matrix Unveiled:

1. Quadrant 1: Important & Urgent
   • These are your immediate needs like crises, scheduled auditions, or last-minute preparations. They’re unavoidable and demand your attention now.
2. Quadrant 2: Important & Not Urgent
   • This is where your dreams take shape. Spend quality time here strategising, training, and focusing on your health and wellness.
3. Quadrant 3: Urgent & Not Important
   • Be wary of these deceptive tasks. They may seem urgent but often don’t align with your long-term goals, like certain meetings or frequent phone calls.
4. Quadrant 4: Not Urgent & Not Important
   • These are your time wasters. Aimless web surfing or endless TV watching falls here. They offer little to no value towards your aspirations.

Actionable Steps to Take Today:

1. Reflect and Record: Spend today tracking how you spend your time. Are you lingering too long in Quadrant 4?
2. Plan with Purpose: Tomorrow, plan your day using the Matrix. Prioritise Quadrant 2 activities to invest in your future.
3. Weekly Check-In: At the end of the week, review your progress. Celebrate your successes and adjust where needed.
4. Share and Inspire: Discuss your experience with fellow artists. Encourage each other in this journey of continuous improvement.

Remember:

Time management isn’t about being busy – it’s about being productive in the right areas. By focusing on what truly matters, you’ll find yourself moving from a starving artist to a thriving artist.

You have the power to shape your day, your week, and your career. Start today and make shit happen!