As busy executives, we often feel the pressure of time. We try to manage our time efficiently to achieve our goals and be productive, but sometimes it feels like time is managing us instead. Instead of constantly struggling with time management, we can shift our mindset and attitude towards time to work more efficiently, feel less stressed, and achieve a better work-life balance.
A coaching mindset is key
Adopting a coaching mindset equips us with the frame of mind that helps us shift our attitude towards time – to be able to make more of it in terms of quality rather than quantity. A coaching approach is one that creates a learning and developmental culture and encourages people to take ownership of their own learning and development. By adopting this mindset, we can become more intentional about how we use our time and make the most of every moment.
One key aspect of a coaching mindset is the ability to set clear goals and priorities. When we have a clear idea of what we want to achieve and what our priorities are, we can be more focused and intentional about how we use our time. This can help us to work more efficiently and avoid wasting time on tasks that are not important or that do not align with our goals.
For example, imagine that you are working on a major project with a tight deadline. Instead of simply diving in and working on whatever task is in front of you, you might take a step back and consider what the most important aspects of the project are. What are the key goals that you need to achieve to meet the deadline? By setting clear priorities and focusing on the most important tasks, you can use your time more effectively and achieve better results.
Another key aspect of a coaching mindset is the ability to stay present and focused in the moment. When we are constantly rushing from task to task, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed and stressed. By staying present and focused in the moment, we can feel more in control of our time and our workload.
For example, imagine that you are in a meeting with your team. Instead of checking your email or thinking about the next task on your to-do list, you might take a deep breath and focus on the conversation at hand. By staying present and fully engaged in the conversation, you can be more effective in your communication and build stronger relationships with your team members.
Finally, a coaching mindset can help us to be more intentional about how we use our downtime. Instead of simply using our downtime to catch up on work or mindlessly scrolling through social media, we can use this time to recharge and rejuvenate ourselves. For example, imagine that you have a few minutes of downtime between meetings – you might take a few deep breaths or go for a quick walk outside. By using this downtime to recharge and refocus, you can be more productive and efficient when you return to your work.
Adopting a coaching mindset can be a powerful tool when it comes to shifting our attitude towards time. By setting clear goals and priorities, staying present and focused in the moment, and being intentional about how we use our downtime, we can work more efficiently, feel less stressed, and achieve a better work-life balance.
So, take a deep breath, shift your mindset, and adopt a coaching approach to time – it could be the key to achieving your goals and feeling more in control of your life.
Here’s a coaching tool you can use to help:
STOP
Tim Gallwey’s STOP tool (From the Inner Game of Work firstly published in 2000).
Coaching for Managers
Our “Coaching for Managers” programmes are designed to help busy executives develop a coaching mindset and learn the toolbox to support more efficient and collaborative working.