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One thing that all Realtors wish for is more time. It seems like there are never enough hours in the day to do everything that needs to be done. Maybe the solution isn't getting more time, but using the time that we have more effectively.

Kaizen is a Japanese word that means 'continual incremental improvement.' No one can change overnight, but by striving for continual incremental improvement, you can work towards your ultimate goal of productivity.

What Do I Actually Do With My Time?

Before you can take control of your time, you have to know how you're spending it. Habitual behavior can consume a lot of our time, and is often unconscious. However, if you keep doing exactly what you've been doing, you'll get the same results. We all make lists of our goals to shoot for, but unless you manage your time more effectively, you won't be able to reach those higher levels.

Knowing how you actually spend your day is the key. Spend a full week recording what you're actually doing with your time. Mark a sheet with half hour intervals. At each half hour mark, stop for a second and write down what you've done for the last half hour, and be honest! You'll be able to see where you're getting off track.

Try Different Perspectives

If you notice that you spend two hours each day checking email, examine this behavior three ways. First, what you think you are doing. In this case, you're checking email, which is a valuable way to keep track of clients. Next look at what you ought to be doing. You need to check that email, but you ought to spend at least an hour a day designing an email newsletter to send to your clients. Lastly, be realistic about what you are actually doing. You may think that you're keeping up with clients, but be honest! Are you reading funny forwards that friends sent? Emailing your sister? Nursing a cup of coffee?

If you're honest about those nasty habits, you'll be able to take control of your productivity. Resolve to save all personal emails for home. Try setting a timer to remind yourself when to move on to a new task. And continue analyzing your time! If you find yourself behind again, take another week to examine your time management. Once you can change your habits, you'll be meeting your goals in no time!