Time tracking is great for agencies that bill clients by the hour. If you don't fall into this category then you might be thinking: why bother? There are numerous benefits to tracking the amount of time you're spending with individual client work. Time tracking exposes your weak points. Visibility into how your workday breaks down leads to greater efficiency; it shows where there's room for improvement in processes and communication. If you're using Accelo's client work management platform, it's *literally* as easy as pressing 'Start'. It's a revelation. Take a look here.
Time tracking encourages monotasking or focusing on one task at a time, a skill that increases productivity. To monotask, first, define your goals and objectives for the week ahead, and then take it one thing at a time. Remember, first things first. You do the first thing. When it's done you do the next right thing ad infinitum.
This method of working allows you to get things done in an orderly manner AND see how much time each individual task takes. Knowing how much time you're spending on specific projects will help you with time management and creating realistic workflows.
Are you on track to hit your goals? Is staying late more common than not? Take a look at your timelines and benchmark goals. If you're frequently behind then use time tracking to adjust expectations and set more accurate deadlines. Once you're in a good flow and no longer running behind you'll be able to create routines and healthy work habits.
Procrastination stems from a fear of failure. Listen to your inner monologue and flag any negative thinking. Instead of aiming for perfect, PsyBlog suggests a deceptively simple-sounding intervention to begin taming your anxiety: "Try doubting your doubts. One easy way to do that is by shaking your head while thinking those negative thoughts. It may sound childish, but according to a study, it can help the chronically uncertain." When doubts come up around a project, keep going. It's okay to stop your timer and take a walk around the block or get a bite to eat. Replenish your body and mind, and put procrastination and less than productive thinking to rest.
Time tracking is for everyone; companies big and small. It increases productivity and decreases burnout. It really is a case of 'you don't know what you don't know'. If you're in the dark on how much time is being spent writing emails then you can't change anything. We're all looking to use time wisely; it's our most precious resource. With Accelo, you really can use time wisely. Sign up for a free trial and see for yourself.
