TIME MANAGEMENT SKILL

What is the core skill?

Time management

Why is this core skill important?

Time management skill is important as it enables an individual to plan personal and professional activities in an appropriate manner and to make effective use of limited time (Wilson, 2016). It also allows a person to prioritize tasks in line with their urgency or importance. The Pickle Jar Theory suggests that people should start with the most important tasks when they have to do a lot within a limited amount of time (Wright, 2002). Fay (2016) demonstrates that effective time management is important because it prevents people from procrastinating on important tasks. Wilson (2016) adds that time management skill is essential as it enables a person to set objectives and goals in order to remain focused on personal and professional dreams. It also allows professionals to effectively meet deadlines (Fay, 2016).

How competent are you currently?

I am highly competent in managing time at work. However, I often fail to use my time wisely at home. Feedback from my tutor and peers allowed me to learn that I am generally effective in managing time. Self-assessment enabled me to understand that I use my time well because of my commitment to excellence in professional activities. I appreciate the fact that I am effective in planning and setting goals pertaining to learning and work activities. Furthermore, I prioritize work-related tasks in an effective manner. I am also effective in meeting the deadlines of my assignments and individual tasks at work. Notably, I rarely postpone work-related tasks to a later time. However, I sometimes procrastinate when faced with social tasks. Therefore, I need to improve my skill of managing personal time so that I can achieve the desired level of work-life balance, as recommended by Unger, Niessen, Sonnentag & Neff (2014).

Can you identify any contradictions or allowable weaknesses from your analysis?

Self-reflection enabled me to realize that I tend to prioritize work tasks even when I am at home. I often spend a lot of time doing work-related tasks at home. This is contradictory to the theory of effective time management. Notably, I should prioritize social activities when I am away from work because they are important for a productive life. Nonetheless, focusing on work is acceptable because it is aligned with my needs for professional growth. Fay (2016) explains that effective time management entails focusing on activities that fulfill one’s personal aspirations and dreams, such as career growth and development.

How will this skill help me in the future?

Time management skills will enable me to plan my work well and to be effective in executing professional responsibilities and roles. The skill will also make me an effective team player. Perlow (2014) demonstrates that effective teams are made of members who execute individual tasks on time with a view of advancing shared objectives. Effective time management will also enable me to stay focused on my career goals. Improving my time management skills will enable me to balance work and social engagements. I understand that I will become an effective manager in the future if I perfect my time management skills, as suggested by Wilson (2016).