Time is a trader’s most valuable resource. Whether you manage projects, handle clients, or lead a team, how you use your time determines your success. But let’s be honest—most of us struggle with prioritisation. The never-ending to-do list, juggling urgent jobs, and trying to stay ahead of business growth can overwhelm you.
So, how do you optimise your time and focus on what truly matters? The answer lies in systems, priorities, and execution.
Why Systems Matter More Than Goals
James Clear, in Atomic Habits, says it best, “You don’t rise to the level of your goals; you fall to the level of your systems.”
In other words, you won’t achieve success just by setting goals—you need structured systems to get there. One of the most important systems in any business is how you manage your time.
Think about it:
- How productive would you be if you woke up every morning without a clear plan?
- How will you ever work on the big picture if you let distractions and urgent (but unimportant) tasks consume your day?
Urgent vs. Important: The Key to Smart Decision-Making
Many tradespeople start the year—or even a new week—with a massive to-do list. But let’s face it: not all tasks are created equal. Some are genuinely important, while others feel urgent because they demand your attention.
The challenge? We often prioritise urgent tasks over important ones.
Here you can fix that:
- Write down your 10 most frequent tasks – The things you do weekly, whether quoting, scheduling jobs, or handling customer inquiries.
- Label each task as:
- Urgent & Important – These need immediate attention (e.g., solving a major customer issue).
- Necessary but Not Urgent – These tasks drive long-term success (e.g., training your team and refining your business strategy).
- Urgent but Not Important—These distract you from bigger-picture work (e.g., answering non-critical emails).
- Not Urgent & Not Important – These should be eliminated or delegated (e.g., unnecessary admin work).
Why Does This Matter?
Most people spend their day reacting to urgent matters instead of focusing on meaningful work. That’s why they feel busy but never move forward.
By shifting focus to essential but non-urgent tasks, you’ll start building momentum towards long-term success.
The 90-Day Sprint: Plan Like a Pro
If you’re attending a Business Benchmark Group Planning Intensive, you’re already a step ahead. But here’s a key insight: Your planning process doesn’t start at the event—it starts before you walk in the door.
If you show up without any thought about your next 90 days, you’re leaving money on the table. Planning intensives is not about “figuring it out” but refining and sharpening what you’ve already been thinking about.
Ask yourself:
- What are two significant priorities I want to achieve in Q1?
- What will I let go of to stay focused on these goals?
- What actions and systems will help me execute?
Success isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing the right things.
LinkedIn: The Unused Business Tool for Tradies
Here’s a reality check: Most tradies are underutilising LinkedIn.
If you’re a business, you’re the relationship game—and LinkedIn is where you can connect with builders, architects, engineers, and strategic partners.
Your 2025 LinkedIn action plan:
- Spend 10 minutes twice a day engaging with posts from your network.
- Post 3-4 times a week—share insights, industry updates, or lessons from your projects.
- Comment and engage with others to build relationships.
You don’t have to be a guru—you just need to start.
The Ultimate Productivity Shift: Do the Hardest Thing First
Many business owners start their day by tackling the easy stuff—checking things off the list feels good.
But the most successful tradies do the most challenging, most important thing first.
- Instead of checking emails first thing, work on a business growth task.
- Instead of dealing with admin, focus on team training or sales strategy.
- Instead of responding to every urgent request, improve your client experience.
When you prioritise what moves your business forward, everything changes.
Final Takeaway: Simplify & Execute
Warren’s business partner, Charles Munger, once said:
“We’ve succeeded by consistently doing our best not to be stupid—rather than trying to be intelligent.”
Keep things simple. Focus on what matters. Eliminate distractions. Execute relentlessly.
Your Action Steps for This Week:
- Write down your 10 most frequent tasks.
- Label each one urgent vs. important.
- Identify two key priorities for the next 90 days.
- Commit to spending more time on LinkedIn.
- Start your day by doing the most challenging, most important task first.
Make 2025 a year of intentional action, not reaction.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Let’s discuss whether you’re seeking tailored strategies to grow your business or need guidance on your next move. Book a free, no-obligation call with our team to explore how we can assist you in achieving your goals.
We’re looking forward to having a relaxed conversation to get started!
