Episode 8 Time Management

Creative Work Hour

In this episode, we delve into the complexities of managing tasks that need revisions and dealing with unexpected challenges. Bobby’s question about planning for when things don’t go as expected sparked a rich discussion among the crew, covering strategies for scheduling time for revisions, managing client expectations, and dealing with the stress of unforeseen issues.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Planning for the Unplanned:

• Bobby shares his approach of allocating 70% of work time to direct tasks, leaving room for breaks and unforeseen issues.
• The importance of anticipating uncertainties and incorporating them into daily schedules.
• Balancing task completion with time for reactive problem-solving.

2. Working Ahead and Time Management:

• A preference for working ahead to avoid time constraints and ensure preparedness for unexpected events.
• Setting up and scripting tasks in advance to keep projects on track.

3. Dealing with Perfectionism:

• Challenges faced by individuals with ADHD and TBI in planning and revising work.
• The concept of “minimum viable product” and the importance of shipping good enough work rather than perfect work.

4. The Importance of Downtime:

• Recognizing downtime as a vital part of productivity, similar to maintaining a vehicle.
• Ensuring employees have time for rest and informal interactions, contributing to overall effectiveness.

5. Leadership and Communication:

• How leadership style and recognition can enhance team productivity.
• The significance of open communication and relationship building in managing client expectations and trust.

6. Realistic Goal Setting:

• The practice of setting small, achievable goals each day to manage workload and reduce anxiety.
• Focusing on relationship management as a key component of service-based work.

7. Adaptability in Teaching and Other Fields:

• The need for teachers to adapt lesson plans based on classroom dynamics and unexpected interruptions.
• Applying similar adaptability to personal and professional project planning.

8. The Role of Honesty and Transparency:

• The value of honesty with clients about potential delays or issues.
• Communicating effectively to maintain trust even when challenges arise.

Listener Engagement:

• Visit creativeworkhour.com for more episodes and resources.
• Send questions or feedback to [e-mail] to be featured in future discussions.

Closing Remarks:
The episode concludes with a reminder that imperfect planning is natural, and improving planning skills involves accepting and learning from past mistakes. Thank you for joining us.