You’re struggling to keep up with your workload. How can you get more done in less time?

As someone who helps golf course managers succeed, I beg that they find a way to automate the pricing of their tee times. I routinely see managers spending 5-8 hours a week reviewing their tee sheet, looking for trouble spots where no rounds are booked. I get it: Tee time revenue is 80% of facility revenue, so it needs to be managed. You can subscribe to software that automatically raises and lowers rates based on forecasted demand. Please do it! It will make you more money and save you time!

I start everyday knocking out the items that appear to be the worst to deal with or the difficult conversation - it sets the tone for Action-

I have developed three strategies to increase my productivity and accomplish more in a shorter duration. Firstly, I abstain from time-consuming activities such as scrutinizing emails to determine whether to respond. Secondly, I utilize the Pomodoro time management technique, which involves breaking down work into intervals with breaks in between. During these breaks, I write in a journal using the Stream of Consciousness method to clear my mind and prepare for the next Pomodoro session. Additionally, to stay focused, I use a 30-minute hourglass. Thirdly, I communicate with my supervisor or colleagues to discuss ways of redistributing tasks or adjusting deadlines if necessary.

As a professional, I've implemented three strategies to boost my productivity and achieve more in less time: 1) I avoid spending excessive time on tasks like carefully examining emails to decide whether to reply. 2) Dividing my work into intervals with breaks. During breaks, I use the Stream of Consciousness method in a journal to declutter my mind and get ready for the next work session. I also use a 30-minute hourglass to help me stay focused. 3) I regularly communicate with my supervisor or coworkers to explore options for redistributing tasks or adjusting deadlines when needed.

As a golf operations manager, it's crucial to identify the most urgent and important tasks to ensure the smooth operation of the course. This could involve prioritizing tasks such as maintenance schedules, customer service needs, or event planning based on their impact on daily operations.

Always write Things to do in front of your work station/area. with ascending order from top priority to lowest one... In a short span of time/days you achieve your work goals/tasks.

Once you've sorted out what tasks are most important, it's time to map out your day. A solid plan keeps you on track, structured, and driven. You can use tools like a calendar, planner, or an app to organize your tasks and establish deadlines. Ensure you allocate sufficient time for each task while leaving room for unexpected problems or urgent matters. Grouping similar tasks and tackling them together can also save you time and effort. For instance, dedicate a set period to handle emails instead of doing it randomly throughout the day.

Planning your day allows you to allocate time efficiently to various tasks, such as overseeing staff, managing inventory, or coordinating with vendors. This helps ensure that essential responsibilities are addressed without becoming overwhelmed by unexpected issues.

You don't need to handle everything solo. Your team is there to assist you, especially with tasks outside your main skills or those not needing your direct attention. Delegating can open up your schedule, letting you concentrate on tasks only you can handle. Yet, effective communication is key. Clearly outline the task, expectations, deadline, and feedback process for your team. Monitor their progress and offer support and guidance as necessary.

For some, delegation can be frightening. If you're anything like me, you're used to doing it all - but you really don't have to! Start small, give your assistant clear instructions and have them do a task you've been dreading or avoiding; maybe you need to put together a quote for some cart path work or need to find a new contractor for tree removal - these are great jobs for an assistant or AIT and give a real glimpse into what being a superintendent is like. If you have a hard time giving others work, try to re-frame it as giving others the chance to grow their skills. When it comes to delegating, it can be hard to start but once you get the hang of it, its a game changer for your time and might bring new ideas you had never imagined!

Delegating tasks to capable staff members not only lightens your workload but also fosters teamwork and professional growth. Effective communication ensures that everyone understands their roles and responsibilities, reducing the likelihood of misunderstandings or errors.

Distractions can really eat into your productivity. They pop up from all directions – phone calls, emails, social media, noise, interruptions, you name it. It's crucial to cut down on these distractions, especially when tackling important or tough tasks. Turn off notifications, silence your phone, close extra tabs or apps, put on headphones, or find a quiet spot to work. Setting clear boundaries and letting your team and clients know when you're available and when you're not can also help a lot.

In a dynamic environment like a golf course, it's easy to get sidetracked by interruptions or non-essential activities. Minimizing distractions, whether it's limiting personal phone use or creating designated workspaces, can help maintain focus and productivity.

Working without breaks can backfire and hurt both your productivity and health. It's vital to take regular breaks to refresh your energy and concentration. Breaks can ward off burnout, lower stress, lift your mood, and boost creativity and problem-solving skills. Aim for short breaks every hour or so, and longer ones every few hours. Use these breaks to stretch, take a walk, meditate, grab a snack, or do something you enjoy. Also, prioritize getting enough sleep, exercise, and good nutrition to keep both your mind and body in top shape.

As demanding as the role of a golf operations manager can be, it's essential to prioritize self-care. Taking regular breaks allows you to recharge mentally and physically, ultimately improving your efficiency and decision-making abilities on the job.

Saying no to things that you actually do really want to do but will get in the way of those critical items that you need to prioritise is something that has helped me. Using multiple to do lists helped me also. A priority list with a max of 3 items, a closed list of 10, an infinite open list to dump stuff in, and a hold list where I’m waiting on other people before I can progress a task.

While all these considerations are key factors for efficiency, nothing replaces a healthy lifestyle factor. When we sleep more, cut the amounts of alcohol and late night social hours, and simply do daily exercises, productivity, efficiency, and mental health all make for improvement. Now get out there and kick some…opportunity.