What do you do if your time management skills are hindered by new technology?

In fact, it's exactly the opposite. We all know what a positive impact group video calling platforms such as Google Meet, Zoom and others have had. Also, the huge leap in the development of artificial intelligence is now helping to perform routine tasks, as well as to analyse data. We can say that the time saved can be used to communicate with colleagues and build closer and more trusting relationships.

Machine should aid productivity not impede it. Accessing impact could mean considering if a tech is assisting you achieve more with less. I.e less time greater output.There is a limited amount of work time during the day and success will be measured by tasks achieved within that time.

Assessing the impact of new technology on your time management is a critical first step in adapting and thriving during constant change. As a leader, it's essential to undertake a thorough analysis to understand how technology influences your workflow, productivity and ultimately, your leadership efficacy. This assessment forms the foundation for making informed decisions that align with your strategic approach to leadership and time management, while laying the groundwork for making strategic decisions that enhance your leadership effectiveness. This intentional approach ensures that technology serves as a lever for your productivity and success, rather than a hurdle to be overcome.

To manage time effectively amidst new technology, set boundaries by: Establishing designated periods for checking emails, messages, and notifications to minimize distractions. Utilizing productivity tools to schedule focused work sessions and allocate specific time slots for tasks. Implementing technology-free zones or times during the day to enhance concentration and prioritize essential tasks.

To overcome time management challenges posed by new technology, prioritize tasks by: Identifying urgent and important tasks using techniques like the Eisenhower Matrix to focus on high-priority items. Utilizing task management apps or tools to create organized to-do lists and allocate time effectively. Limiting non-essential technology usage and dedicating uninterrupted blocks of time to accomplish critical tasks.

New technology will always feel like a hindrance because, in most cases, it poses challenges and causes disruptions that we aren't ready for. I have learned to invest time to really understand the purpose and benefit of the adopted technology. This includes researching it by looking up videos on YouTube and vendor resources to learn more about it. Free tutorials and job aids prove beneficial to my ability to learn how to navigate the new technology. From there, I spend time "playing" with the tool in order to find a way to incorporate it into my workday. Allowing technology to work for me keeps it from working against me. I can then offer real feedback to leaders about my experiences - the pros and cons of learning and utilizing the tool.

Embracing learning in the context of new technology ensures that you remain at the forefront of technological advancements, enabling you to leverage these tools to optimize your leadership effectiveness and efficiency. This continuous learning mindset fosters agility and innovation, essential qualities in today's fast-paced business environment. By adopting a growth mindset with new technology, you not only refine your time management skills but also exemplify a leadership approach that values adaptability, continuous improvement and strategic engagement with innovation; a commitment that not only enhances your own effectiveness but also inspires a learning-oriented culture within your organization.

To optimize time management amid new technology: Set specific time limits for using certain apps or devices to prevent overindulgence. Use productivity apps to track and analyze time spent on various tasks, identifying areas for improvement. Implement digital detox periods to focus on priority tasks without distractions, promoting more efficient use of time.

Optimizing the use of new technology is a strategy that aligns with your role as a senior leader, ensuring that technological tools are leveraged to enhance your time management and overall leadership efficacy. By fine-tuning how you engage with technology, you demonstrate a commitment to maximizing resources, embodying an intentional and results-oriented leadership approach. It allows you to harness the full potential of these tools, ensuring they contribute positively to your workflow and leadership objectives, rather than becoming sources of distraction or inefficiency. This optimization process is key to ensuring that technology serves as a catalyst for productivity and effective leadership

Reflection on your use of new tech provides a structured approach to evaluate how well tech is serving your leadership objectives, helping you make adjustments that optimize your time and resources; it reinforces a leadership style that is proactive and adaptive to changing tech landscapes. Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of each tech tool in your arsenal; is each tool enhancing your productivity or are adjustments needed to better serve your leadership objectives? How does the tool affect your relationships with team members and stakeholders? Is the tool facilitating a productive rhythm or contributing to stress and burnout? Translate insights into actionable steps to ensures that it leads to improvements in your effectiveness.

Ensure that your use of technology aligns with the long-term vision and strategic objectives of your organization. This alignment guarantees that technological tools are leveraged to support overarching goals, not just immediate efficiencies. Consider how technology adoption and your time management strategies are perceived and integrated into the organizational culture. Promote a culture where technology is seen as an enabler of better work practices, aligning with the organization's values and mission. Foster an environment that encourages innovation and experimentation with new technologies. This culture of innovation can lead to discovering novel ways to enhance time management and productivity.