Management 4-1-1

I was recently inspired by a post outlining the concept of MITs (aka -  Most Important Tasks).  Most Important Tasks are the most critical activities you identify and complete before the end of the day. 

By treating MITs as tasks which must be absolutely and unequivocally completed before you wrap-up your day, you will ensure you’re making constant and forward progress on the most important things.

Here are a few additional thoughts around adding MITs to your daily routine:

1. Start your day by identifying no more than 3 – 5 MITs: The number should be reasonable but also allow the reality that “stuff” pops-up needing immediate attention.

 

2. Tackle at least one of your MITs as soon as you wake up: Email, phone calls and impromptu visitors are the ultimate “derailers”.  By taking action on an MIT as soon as possible, ensures at least one MIT gets done.  It also provides momentum for the day. 

 

3. After you check your email, tackle another MIT: Constant and never-ending focus on getting as many MITs done as early and as quickly as possible is the key to success in making forward progress.  

 

4. One MIT should align with your Master Task List: A Master Task List identifies the most important work-related tasks you are responsible for.  As a manager, applying one MIT to working towards your most critical areas of responsibility, will ensure you’re continually applying focus to reaching your organizational goals.

 

5. One MIT should focus on your goals: Self-development is critical as a leader, manager and person.  Every day you should grow in some way towards achieving your goals – personal, professional or otherwise.

And while you will likely accomplish more than your three to five MITs, it’s through this daily habit of identifying and executing on your Most Important Tasks, you will ensure constant progress on the most important things to you and your organization.