Time management can be the secret to thriving as a technologist, whether you're juggling assigned Stories in Agile, coordinating external parties, or managing your own team. Here are some key lessons to help you maximise productivity, stay on track, and reduce stress:

1. Master Time Blocking & Colour Coding

Time blocking is an effective way to carve out dedicated time slots for important tasks. Use a colour-coded calendar to visually segment your work—meetings, coding sprints, planning sessions, etc.—so you know at a glance where your focus should be. It’s a practical approach that not only ensures you allocate enough time to critical activities but also helps you maintain balance.

2. Know When to Use Time Boxing

Time boxing and time blocking are two sides of the same coin. While time blocking sets aside time for a task, time boxing sets strict time limits for completion. For example, set aside two hours to complete a code review, ensuring it doesn’t expand indefinitely. This helps with efficiency and ensures tasks don’t overrun other commitments.

3. Break Tasks into Manageable Pieces

Tackling a huge project can be overwhelming. Break it down into smaller, manageable pieces and set realistic time frames for each. Small wins accumulate into major progress, keeping you motivated and preventing the sense of being stuck in an endless cycle.

4. Delegate Effectively

Your time is valuable, and as a tech leader or aspiring CTO, it’s crucial to recognise when to delegate. Hand off tasks that can be managed by your team—whether it's routine updates or setting up new environments. Delegation frees you up to focus on higher-priority work and provides your team with opportunities to learn and grow.

5. Track Your Progress – Don't Delete Tasks

Often, deleting completed tasks from your to-do list can rob you of a sense of progress. Instead, keep them visible as “completed” items. This allows you to reflect on what’s been achieved and serves as a motivational reminder during those hectic days when it feels like nothing is getting done.

6. Communicate Clearly for Less Rework

Miscommunication can lead to wasted time and frustration, especially in technology projects. Ensure that expectations are clear, whether it’s with external parties or team members. Outline the expected outcome, timeline, and responsibilities, and confirm everyone is aligned. This simple step reduces rework and saves time in the long run.

7. Manage Your Energy, Not Just Your Time

Time management isn’t only about scheduling work hours; it’s about managing your energy effectively. Block out times for focused work, but also schedule breaks. A short walk or a coffee break can recharge you, helping you come back more focused and productive. Prioritise time for relaxation to prevent burnout.

Start Building a Time Management Routine Today

The key to effective time management lies in the small habits we build. Start by implementing one of these strategies today—maybe it's colour-coding your calendar or taking five minutes each morning to break down a complex task into manageable chunks. Consistency will make these practices second nature, helping you get on top of your time and lead effectively.

Remember, your time is valuable—manage it well, and you’ll not only thrive in your work but also lead your team to greater success.

Be LIT: The Framework for Effective Technology Leadership

To be an effective technology leader, you need to be LIT—Leader, Innovator, and Technologist. At Become CTO, we use the LIT framework to help you become an impactful CTO. By developing leadership skills, driving innovation, and leveraging your technical expertise, you can unlock your full potential and guide your team towards success.