Episode 59: Moving the Needle: Distinguishing Urgency, Priority and Importance

In this episode, I break down the difference between priority and importance—two concepts that often get mixed up but play a crucial role in how we manage our time and energy. I walk through a simple framework to help distinguish between what demands immediate attention and what can wait, so you can stop feeling overwhelmed and start making intentional choices. Tune in to learn how to structure your priorities in a way that aligns with your values—and finally stop letting urgency run the show. 

 

Key Takeaways:   

Urgent and Important: Must-Do Tasks - Some tasks require immediate action because they have deadlines and significant consequences. These should always come first, as delaying them can lead to major disruptions. 

Urgent but Not Important: The Things That Feel Pressing but Aren’t Essential - Some tasks create a sense of urgency but don’t contribute much to long-term goals. They may feel necessary at the moment, but completing them shouldn’t come at the expense of more meaningful priorities. 

Important but Not Urgent: The Things That Shape Your Future - Some priorities don’t come with immediate deadlines, yet they have a lasting impact. These are the investments that shape personal growth, well-being, and long-term success. While they often get pushed aside, making time for them before they become urgent prevents unnecessary stress. 

Neither Urgent Nor Important: The Distractions That Steal Your Time - Some activities neither add real value nor require immediate attention, yet they quietly consume time. Identifying and minimizing these can create space for what truly matters. 

Are You Truly Prioritizing What Matters? 

What people claim is important is not always reflected in how they spend their time. Without intentional focus, meaningful priorities can be neglected until urgency forces action. True prioritization means addressing what truly deserves attention before it becomes a crisis. 

 

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Hosted by: Dr. Maiysha Clairborne 

 

Communication is the foundation of everything and everything happens in communication. If you’re ready to take your communication to the next level, our Communication That Transforms course dives deep into creating psychological safety, handling crucial conversations, navigating conflict, and cultivating trust in a way that truly leaves the people in your life feeling seen, heard, respected and valued. It will transform how you lead and how you show up in all of your relationships . Learn more and register at www.mindremappingacademy.com/ticc. If you are a leader and your employees or teams are struggling with team dynamics, consider taking them through our new “Communications That Transforms” group cohort. 

 

See the full course breakdown and get a free preview of key modules to experience the value. Go to https://mindremappingacademy.com/course-catalogue and schedule a call with Dr. Clairborne at www.mindremappingacademy.com/corporate-programs