One of the functions of being the œtop banana is management.  Management is concerned with resources, i.e., time, money, people and equipment.

In any given day all of these may be calling for your attention. It has been my experience that poor management undermines the leaders performance more than any other function. Today, I want to talk to you about just one point that can raise the level of your effectiveness as a manager.

It is called PRIORITY. I am sure you have your to-do list.  To-do lists have very little to do with priority.  In fact, to-do lists (or the use of them) is where a lot of the mis-management occurs.

With to-do lists there are too many opportunities to attend to the easiest item or the sexiest item or the one that will produce the biggest result (some day).  None of these have anything to do with priority.

You priority list needs to be, above all, timely.  What is it that needs to be done NOW.  Many times it is just a small action that clears the way for the next big project to get completed.  There are (Im sure) many ways to use priority.  I am just going to  give you one which has been very good for me.

First of all, lets develop three or four categories that cover everything you are accountable for. How about these?

WORK                           FAMILY                       PERSONAL

(You might want to have a fourth called Miscellaneous)


Under each one write down everything you are committed to making happen.  Do not try to put them in any order at this point, just get them down under the appropriate heading.

Once you cant think of anything else, take each column separately and list them in their order of importance.  Why am I saying separately?

If you do not do them separately, work will crush the other two.  Each category is equal to the other two.  Why?  Because you say so.  They are the key elements in having something called a œbalanced life.

A balanced life does not mean equal time.  Work will win that one.  Not that I think work is more important.  I dont.  I am going on what my two eyes have seen over the past half century.

For example, if you dont take care of yourself you will not perform at the level of your highest capability.  Get a haircut, go to a movie, work out, read a book for an hour, listen to your favorite music, etc.  Or, maybe its just a few minutes by yourself to put your feet up and let the thoughts flow.

Once you have your columns in priority order you have one more step;  put the top three in each on you daily priority  list.  Then put an action you are going to take today.

If  today cant work put it to the top of  the column on tomorrows list.  You also may change your priority list as you go through the day as œstuff happens as they say.

Your objective is to cause movement each day with your top priorities.  It may be a leap some days and just an inch another day.  We are always wanting to hit a home run.  A walk, a bunt and a single will get you a run, too.

If you complete a priority, move the next one into your top three.  If something moves around on your list but never gets off of it, stop and check in to see if you REALLY want to do it.  If not, give it to someone who does.

Sticking to your priorities handles a multitude of things.  Getting a not-so-favorite activity off your list.  No wasted energy on what you dont want to do.  The best action, give it away. Raising your ability to meet deadlines is critical.  And, most of all, that balance thing.

A word of caution.  Dont short-change your family priorities.  If you have children, they will be in and our of your life in a heartbeat.  Everything you miss cant ever be replaced.  I am not talking theory here.  I am the poster child for having missed so much.

Work will always be there.  Your health, spirit, family and friendships are fragile and easily damaged beyond repair.  Last, but not least, have FUN.  Laugh a lot, sing and dance a lot.  Work need not be serious. Brain surgery is serious.