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Yes, I have a time management problem — so what?!
Confessions of a designer, mother, and all-around busy professional.
Author’s Note: Names have been changed. Illustrations by Eric Stephan Moore
Justine M. is unapologetic about her lack of time management skills. “I don’t want to see another ’10 ways to hack your time’ post on LinkedIn. You practically need to be a wizard to take advantage of those tips. They don’t seem realistic at all.”
Mrs. M., 35, an event planner, designer, and manager for a successful non-profit organization, is responding to the myriad articles on the popular topic of time management. Whether it is an issue of attention or management training, Justine couldn’t be bothered. Yet, she knows the problem continues to exist.
The Alternative World View.
When confronted with an issue like time management, design thinking suggests looking at alternative worlds. What are other industry professionals doing to solve the problem? What can be gleaned from their daily interactions that can be put into practice?
Event planners share common ground with the “designer.” Each has its share of meaningless meetings, recalcitrant clients, and people who randomize their time. We both own deadlines, answer to multiple…
