In last week’s second part of this series, I explained how, in an effort to manage your time wisely, you might consider adopting an off-peak lifestyle. This simply means that when it comes to life’s routine demands (going to the bank, the dry cleaners, the grocery store, etc), as a pastor you don’t have to keep to the same schedule as the rest of the world. Taking care of these necessities at off-peak times will save you a lot of time.
Take a look at the next two examples of where you can apply this huge time management skill:
- Doctor Appointments: Is there anything more annoying than sitting in a doctor’s office waiting room for hours on end? There are certain appointment slots that can minimize your wait time. I suggest asking what those are when you make your appointment. Personally, I’ve found that the first appointment after lunch is the best. In the morning, doctors are busy with issues and emergencies that happened overnight. They get behind schedule fast. But no matter what, they will always come back from lunch on time. Being that first appointment when they return can cut your wait down significantly.
- Commute: You likely have the freedom to decide what time you get to your office and what time you leave. So why not plan your driving time to avoid traffic? If leaving for the office an hour earlier or staying an hour later means you won’t have to sit in rush-hour madness, then by all means, take advantage of the unique flexibility you have. The time adds up.
You get the picture. Simple tweaks to your routine can save you hours over the course of a month. Having a self-directed schedule is one of the benefits of working in ministry. Be sure to take advantage of it so that you can have more time for the things that matter.
Click here to read Part 1 of this series.
Click here to read Part 2 of this series.
Your partner in ministry,
Nelson
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