Taming the Time Thieves: Boosting Productivity in E-commerce

Even for those primarily using the internet for business, the bombardment of business-related information from countless websites, ezines, forums, discussion lists, and chat rooms can be overwhelming and potentially addictive. These resources can be beneficial for business, but they can also become distractions if they hinder us from accomplishing more important tasks. Falling prey to these time thieves often leaves us wondering, "Where did all the time go?"

Strategies to Combat Time Thieves

In a recent interview for Entrepreneur's Start-Ups Magazine (Sept. 2000 Issue, pg. 30), I shared some strategies for effectively dealing with time thieves, which were featured in the sidebar "Smart Move - Make It Count."

• Set Goals: Without a clear destination, how can you navigate your journey? Write down your goals.
• Maintain and Utilize a Prioritized To-Do List: Always address high-priority tasks first, and work on low-priority ones as time permits.
• Exercise Self-Discipline: Staying focused on your top priorities will yield greater results from your time and effort.
• Automate Where Possible: Utilize time-saving tools such as autoresponders and filters for emails.
• Periodically Analyze Your Business: Evaluate which activities are effective and which ones should be eliminated.

When faced with a multitude of tasks and limited time, focusing on what's most important is essential. Regularly reassessing your priorities and goals, and making necessary adjustments to stay on track is beneficial. After all, there's only one you, and only so many hours in each day.

Conclusion

To reap maximum benefits from the limited time you have to accomplish tasks in your online business, or any other area of life, effective time management is key. Doing so will enable you to achieve more, and you'll look back on your work with the satisfaction of knowing that you accomplished the most important tasks, instead of looking back with regret. As Benjamin Franklin wisely stated, "Dost thou love life? Then do not squander time, for that's the stuff life is made of."

Marty Foley shares unique e-commerce success strategies in his highly-acclaimed resource, Internet Marketing Goldmine. He also assists Internet entrepreneurs in boosting profits through his members-only website, ProfitInfo. His audio program on time management demonstrates how to increase your productivity (online and off), defeat procrastination, and reach your goals.