There are so many things to take care of when operating a small business: as an owner or manager you are responsible for everything from marketing and promotion to collecting debts and disciplining staff. It can all get on top of you at times so here are some tips to help you deal with it all.

Make lists
Make a list of projects you need to complete and phone calls you need to make. Prioritise the items according what things have to be done today and which items are essential for the efficient running of your business. You should add to the list things that come to mind during the day. Mark off the items as they are handled; then at the beginning of each day or perhaps each week, make a fresh list and prioritise the remaining items. This should take about 15 minutes each day or a little longer if done once a week. It can help you avoid that familiar sinking feeling when you realise you forgot something important and also help you feel "on top of things" on a daily basis while freeing your mind to concentrate on the job at hand.

Be realistic
One way to set yourself up for a panic situation is to plan an unrealistic amount of work for one day/week/etc. Use your common sense to recognise when you have over-scheduled yourself. Enthusiasm is wonderful, but it does not add more hours to the day.

Handle things once
Spend 20 seconds filing that important paper now rather than 30 minutes searching for it later. Take a moment to jot down that phone number on your permanent list instead of spending a minute tracking it down again later.

Delegate
It is not necessary for you to personally handle every item. Get your staff to handle routine items that did not require your personal input.

Schedule personal time
Create time for yourself in your diary each day. This may be to eat your lunch, go to the gym or get some fresh air. If someone wants to see you at that time, just say, "I'm sorry, I have an appointment then." This is a legitimate use of time as it will help clear your mind and recharge your batteries. You will find you still get as much, if not more, done.

Watch your energy levels
We all operate best at different times of the day. Schedule your most important tasks for your peak energy period and the routine tasks during your low energy period.

Verify appointments before you go
Take a minute to call and verify the appointment and time before you leave the office to avoid being "stood up".