Episode 75: Time Management Strategies: Run Your Day, Don’t Let It Run You

In this episode of the HRDQ-U In Review podcast, host Sarah welcomes speaker and trainer Patti Massullo to explore key insights from her webinar, Time Management Strategies: Run Your Day, Don’t Let It Run You. Drawing from decades of experience and study, Patti breaks down some of the most effective time management strategies that go far beyond the typical "just wake up earlier" advice.

Together, they unpack the Rule of Three, the power of time blocking, and how to identify high-impact tasks that actually move the needle. Patti shares why your energy matters just as much as your schedule, how to manage distractions with intention, and what it really means to set professional boundaries that stick.

Whether you're overwhelmed by your to-do list or just looking to work smarter, this conversation is packed with practical tools to help you stop reacting and start leading your day—with clarity, calm, and confidence.

Chapters

00:02 – Introduction and Background Sarah introduces the episode and welcomes Patti Massullo, who shares her background in professional development and time management training.

01:45 – Challenging Traditional Time Management Advice Patti debunks common myths—like the idea that waking up earlier guarantees productivity—and introduces the Rule of Three for daily focus.

04:22 – Time Blocking and Distraction Management Tips for implementing time blocking, batching, and the Pomodoro Technique, plus how to capture distractions without losing momentum.

05:43 – Setting Professional Boundaries Why clear communication around time and availability is essential—and how to do it without guilt.

07:14 – High-Impact vs. Low-Impact Tasks Using tools like the Eisenhower Matrix to distinguish between busy work and what truly matters.

09:31 – Managing Energy and Choosing Tools Wisely Patti talks about working with your energy rhythms and how to avoid shiny object syndrome when choosing productivity tools.

Action Items

00:02:18 – Conduct a time audit to identify patterns and time drains. 00:02:44 – Start each day by choosing your top three priorities using the Rule of Three. 00:04:56 – Create a “distraction capture list” to maintain focus during time blocks. 00:06:09 – Set and clearly communicate availability windows and define what qualifies as an emergency. 00:07:26 – Review your tasks at the end of each day to assess impact and alignment with goals. 00:09:47 – Track your energy patterns and schedule high-focus work accordingly. 00:11:57 – Before trying a new productivity tool, wait 48 hours and assess your true need for it.

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