Having taken this class taught by Matt Corroboy, I understood that productivity as a project manager doesn't depend on how many tasks you can do, but rather on properly managing your time and remaining agile. The notion of creating a system based on your calendar and not on ad hoc reactions to new tasks was the biggest takeaway for me from this course.

What I Have Learned

One of the first things that really captured my attention the most was the importance of prioritizing myself and my schedule when trying to manage and work with other people. If my schedule is lacking in structure or organization, it could make me an inefficient manager and team member.

Another big takeaway was the concept of agility, which basically implies that a good management system is expected to remain dynamic even when the plans change.

Active task management was another lesson worth learning; it meant making proper assignments within my calendar.

My Previous Methodology

Before taking this course, my methodology when it came to managing my time was comprised of: 

Trying to stick to a general to-do list
Executing tasks according to their urgency level
Assigning no particular time periods for concentrated effort
Being reactive instead of being proactive about meeting deadlines in a timely manner

Sometimes, I would find myself being stressed and overwhelmed, especially when a multitude of tasks would coincide with one another.

My New Calendar Strategy

Based upon the methodologies learned throughout the class, I have revamped my calendar to make it more efficient.

1. Time Blocking

Now, I block off a set period of time within which I perform tasks. This ensures that my important work is not overlooked because it simply must fit into the allotted time period.

2. Prioritization

Initially, I determine the following priorities at the beginning of the week:

High – these tasks are to be completed under any circumstances
Moderate – they are to be done, but may slip occasionally if necessary
Low – these can be postponed until a future date

This ensures that I concentrate my energies on what really matters.

3. Project Management by Others

In managing projects by other individuals, I will:

Break down the task into its component parts
Establish realistic deadlines
Periodically check on their status
4. Agile Time Blocks

Weekly Structure Template for Me
Morning – Work intensely (tasks that require effort)
Afternoon – Collaborative work
Evening – Simple tasks

I will also do:

Weekly planning
Evaluation of the week and making changes where necessary
What Do I Want to Improve?

In the future, I want to:

Improve my time-blocking technique
Avoid overloading myself with many tasks
Make changes to my structure on a consistent basis
Final Reflection

The most important lesson I learned from this class is that being productive does not have anything to do with working hard but rather with structure and intention. This means that improving my personal structure will positively impact others in the project.