How can you save 4 to 12 hours a week without sacrificing your priorities?
Do you feel like you’re constantly racing against the clock, juggling back-to-back meetings, urgent tasks, and endless demands? What if I told you that it’s possible to free up 4 to 12 hours a week without sacrificing your priorities?
Do you need help managing your time?
Inspired by the book “I’m Taking Back Control of My Time” by Alain Humbert, here is a proven method for regaining control of your schedule.
1. Identify your "real" pebbles: Prioritize what truly matters
Imagine your time as a jar: if you fill it with sand first (the small tasks and unexpected events), there won’t be any room left for the pebbles (your priorities). Flip the logic: start by identifying your essential “pebbles.”
How do I do that?
- List your weekly activities.
- Ask yourself, “Does this task contribute to my long-term goals?”
- Rank them based on their impact on your results and well-being.
💡 Tip: Set clear goals that align with your values to give meaning to your schedule.
2. Schedule your recurring tasks: Create efficient routines
Recurring tasks (team meetings, reporting, VAT, etc.) form the foundation of your organization. By scheduling them at set times:
✅ You reduce your mental load.
✅ You’re making productivity habits second nature.
✅ You free up time for what really matters.
Example:
- Monday morning: Weekly review of priorities.
- Wednesday afternoon: Time slot dedicated to market intelligence
- First Thursday of every month: My report
💡 Tip: Group similar tasks together to avoid cognitive overload.
3. Set aside "flexible" time slots: Stay on top of the unexpected
Unexpected events are inevitable. Rather than being caught off guard, plan ahead by setting aside “Joker” slots. These are time slots intentionally left open for:
- Handle emergencies or… postpone them until the next “Joker” if what you were doing remains a higher priority than the unexpected event.
- Complete any unfinished tasks.
- Take a step back from strategic issues.
Benefits:
✅ Less stress when dealing with the unexpected.
✅ More flexibility without compromising your priorities.
💡 Tip: Set aside 1 or 2 “wildcard” slots each week. Even if you don’t end up using them, they’ll give you a chance to take a breather.
4. Cut out the unnecessary: Say "no" assertively
Every “yes” to a non-essential task is a “no” to your priorities. Learn to filter out requests by asking yourself this question: “Is this request aligned with my goals?”
✅ If so, plan it wisely. ✅ If not, decline politely but firmly.
💡 Tip: Use the "positive 'no'" method:
- Namethe request.
- Considerhow it will affect your schedule.
- Negotiatean alternative if necessary.
Inspiring testimonial: "I've gained one day a week in my schedule"
“The tools Alain introduced during the training have completely changed the way I manage my time. I’ve freed up at least one day a week in my schedule, with immediate and lasting benefits.” — Lucas SCHLIGLER, CEO – SCHLIGLER
🎯 Take back control today!
Optimizing your time doesn't mean working more, but working smarter. By applying these principles:
✅ You free up valuable hours every week.
✅ You'll reduce your stress and become more efficient.
✅ You’ll achieve your goals with greater peace of mind.
Want to take it a step further?
Discover the course “Rebalancing My Life by Taking Back Control of My Time” and take back control of your schedule with ÉcloHésion.
