Most of us learn time management the hard way – through trial and error, often working late nights to meet deadlines. Etienne Garbugli has put together some productivity gems he wishes he’d known when he was starting out into the presentation below. I feel that these are timeless because they apply to almost anyone at any stage of their professional career.

5 of the key points that I find really worth highlighting are:

Days always fill up. – Only plan for 4-5 hours of real work per day.

– David Heinemeier Hansson, 37 Signals

Doing is better than perfect.

– Facebook company motto

Only ever work on the thing that will have the biggest impact.

– Jason Cohen, @asmartbear

Set end dates for intense or stressful activities. Everything ends at some point.

Set deadlines for everything. Don’t let tasks go on indefinitely.

Photo Credit: Flotographic Arts. cc