Cathy Liska Time management tools abound. Because each person is unique, what works for some may be less than ideal for others. Coaches explore different time management tools both for perspective and for awareness of what is available.
In a coaching relationship the coach is in many ways a time management tool. The coach works with a client so that they decide what they are doing and when they are doing it. The coach is an accountability partner that follows up, asking about progress. When a client makes progress the coach acknowledges it. When a client has incomplete action steps, then the coach works with them on moving forward. For many clients knowing that their coach will be checking with them encourages them to complete their action steps.
Some clients share their calendars with their coach, journal about what they are doing, or use one of the software programs or telephone apps available. Together the coach and client review, adjust, strategize, and plan. This supports the client in developing the time management habits they do want.
When designing actions during a coaching session, coaches are aware that some clients work best with a “to do” list. Other clients achieve more when each task is scheduled on a specific day at a specific time. Effective coaching means working with a time management tool that best serves the individual client.
