We’re just not good time managers, many of us. But here’s another way to think about it: Manage your energy more than you manage your time. 

My best times of energy for study and engaging with others is in the morning from 6am to noon. You really don’t want to catch me from 1pm to 4pm, and to be honest – that sucks because ourweekend meetings and teaching meetings are in the afternoons. It’s just not my best energy. I know if I need to meet with people or deal with significant things, I have to do it in the times when I’m not depleted. 

Manage your energy, which then will help you manage your time. “No” can be a hard answer, but a “no” to protect your energy and your self helps everyone. So work your schedule to what best benefits you. Then guard both sides. Guard the mornings if that’s your best energy, for the things that need your best thinking. And also guard your low energy times. Low energy times might be good for email, for all that little stuff you just need to get out of the way, but don’t require any major interaction or decisions. If you try to give out of empty, you give nothing. And that’s never good for anyone. Remember: No is your friend. Balance your energy. And that will help you balance your time.