A recent report revealed that one of the biggest struggles for grant writers is time management. Multiple overlapping deadlines, wearing several hats, and underestimating a grant’s required time were cited as time management challenges.
And I definitely get it!
Here are some tips and solutions to improve your grant writing time management so you can breathe…
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Prioritize and Plan
When it seems like deadlines and tasks are coming at you from every direction, you may be tempted to put out the fires rather than make time to prevent future fires. This is a losing strategy that will keep you struggling. Create a master plan and then prioritize applications according to deadlines, program needs, and probability of success.
Set Goals and Track Them
You may have heard the adage, “You can only manage what you can measure,” and it is true. How do you know if you are succeeding or failing if you haven’t established what they look like? Be clear about objectives and what it will mean to be successful. In the corporate world, they are called KPIs (key performance indicators).
Time Block
I have mentioned blocking before, and it is a lifesaver. Block a set amount of time to focus on one thing rather than forcing your brain to transition from task to task. For example, I block two hours for grant research one morning each week. I go through each client, one by one, research new opportunities, and add them to the grant calendar. During this time, my brain is hyperfocused on researching and vetting grant opportunities because I am not allowing myself to be distracted by anything else.
Create an Intentional Workspace
I work from home, so distractions abound. My workspace is clean and free of distractions. I play focus music, fill my Stanley with water, and get to work.
Reply to this email and let me know what helps you get in the zone and better manage your time.
Until next time,
Write Epic Grants
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