The world is going so fast... Life at the speed of the Internet seems to be the rule!

Remember when "fast" was a word for loose, for leaping before looking, for being capricious? A description of outlaws, loose women and untrustworthy types!

These days, it's speed that is the measure of being able to adapt and excel in the e-conomy. Speed of thought, speed of implementation, speed of change. The flexible and the fast are the 21st centuries winners.

Everywhere I go, people ask me how they can manage their time better. How can they respond and be fast enough? Increasing personal effectiveness is what I help people do. There are two areas I have found that make a big difference.

Time Tip # 1

If you manage the space, you will have more time.

Where can you increase the space around you? This may mean de-cluttering, organizing, or letting go. If you increase the space, you will increase your perception of having enough time to do it all.

I've seen it happen over and over again, I'll coach an agent to free up space in their file cabinet, so they have room for new clients and pretty soon the phone starts ringing. Yesterday, I threw out an old bungee cord that I use to hold the mail when I ride my bike to the post office. It was falling apart. As I rode, I found a brand new one on the ground halfway to the post office! The same weirdness happens as you let go of what is old, you don't need, and that doesn't fit your present standards.

Do This:

• Throw out 100 items you no longer need
• Give away 100 perfectly usable items
• Organize and de-clutter your office to give you more space
• Do the same to your databases; quit holding on to non-productive names

For 2000, create SPACE and you'll have time to attract new, better quality business.

Time Tip # 2

Focus on QUALITY not Quantity.

There will never be enough time to do it all. You are going to die with unanswered email. Contrary to how it feels some days, there is plenty of business out there for those who decide to be successful. Don't take that word "decide" lightly. It is in your thinking the success becomes real. What you focus on expands.. what messages are you giving your sub-conscious?

So instead of doing more, let's think about doing it better. Think about each element of your business, how can you upgrade to increase your effectiveness?

Some areas to think about:

Published: January 28, 2000

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Editor's Note: This article reflects the opinions of Joeann Fossland only and not necessarily the views of this or any other publication, organization or Website owner.

Joeann Fossland GRI, LTG, MCC is a dynamic speaker and business coach. Creator of THE REAL ESTATE GAMETM, she provides coaching solutions enhance your effectiveness and life balance. You can subscribe to her free monthly newsletter, attend free monthly telephone seminars, and find out about classes delivered by email and personal coaching by visiting JoeAnn.com or e-mail her at .