Time Management For Creative People

Left-brain and right-brain thinkers can be equally effective.

Although some people may claim that an organized desk is the sign of a sick mind, it is merely the sign of a left-brain thinker. An analytical, left-brain thinker thrives on lists, schedules and alphabetical files tucked neatly out of sight in organized desk drawers - much to the delight of those time management experts who promote structure and order to the nth degree. And although organization is not only efficient, but also viewed as a virtue by many, we are not all left-brained thinkers.

Keeping detailed lists in daily journals, cross-referencing with monthly goals and scheduling every task from window displays to bank deposits, to me at least, is bordering on torture. I like to splash my life across a week-at-a-glance planner [that I designed for myself,] scheduling only the top priorities, and limiting my list to things that should be done that week. I like my working materials splayed in front of me on my desk and my active projects housed in step files in full view. To me, interruptions are opportunities, not hindrances, and quiet hours are figments of time management writers' imaginations. I suppose I'm a right-brain thinker. In my opinion, there are no points for neatness, and the goal of business is not only to make a profit, but also to enjoy the process.

Having said that, I'm not against left-brain thinkers. We can learn from them. In fact I have a left brain myself, albeit not as prominent. It tempers my emotions with logic, keeps me from making a complete fool of myself, and helps me to cope with all the forms, reports and other paperwork that I detest. But some of the same time management suggestions that help left-brain thinkers increase their personal productivity, serve to drive me up the wall. We must recognize that there is no one best way to manage time. We must select those ideas that match our style. Right-brain, creative people should not feel guilty if left-brain ideas don't feel comfortable.

If you're a right-brain thinker, you can practice left-brain ideas. [After all, you do have a left hemisphere as well.] But select only those ideas that are worth the effort. Make notes while talking on the telephone, for instance. Use a follow-up file to house future projects. Record due dates of assignments in your planner.

If you're a left-brain thinker, you should have no problem incorporating time-saving ideas from books and seminars. But leave time for relaxation, keep your life in balance, and above all, have fun.

For more Time Management advice visit Harold Taylor´s website or send him an email.

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