Most folks think time management is a personal thing. However, there’s no point in doing any of what you do without the colleagues and communities you’re advocating for. Here’s some questions to ponder that may help you prioritize:
1. “How does this help the people we serve?” Above all else, as educators we are here to serve our students/patrons/clients. Which tasks would do the most good for them?
2. “How does this help my boss?” Once you have your students squared away, consider your supervisor, and your larger organization. Which tasks could best serve them?
3. “How could this help us gain more resources?” As always, I’m defining “resources” loosely here—money, time, or friends and political capital. Having lunch with a peer might seem unimportant, but you never know when a passing remark might spark a new collaboration.
When you become a leader, it’s too easy to get fixated on your needs or those of your team. But if you’d like more connection outside that circle, ask “Who am I doing this for?” That question will help you focus on what’s truly important.
