The art of time management

With the start of a new year, you're probably ready to start fresh. You've gotten through the hectic schedule of the holidays, and perhaps even used some of your time off to reflect on your procrastinating ways. Now, armed with fresh New Year's resolutions and 2013 goals you are determined to achieve, you reason that this year will be different. This is the year you will change your bad habits and will better manage your work-life balance. You're going to get to the gym, while not sacrificing your work load. When you're in the office, you resolve to more wisely allocate your time spent between dreaming and doing, so you don't miss a chance to look at the big picture. You will have a better plan to prioritize and achieve. Sounds good. Now how do you do it?

Time management is the key to getting those things that are truly important done, while allowing you to still have a life outside of the office. Especially in our fast-paced, technologically advanced world where the expectation is to be available 24/7, time management is a hot topic relevant year round.

There have been numerous books and articles written about this subject suggesting techniques for becoming the master of your own time. While making lists and power-blocking time are all important behavioral skills — I suggest that the most essential time-management strategy is a better understanding of yourself and your priorities.