The effective person doesn't let the apparent success of being more efficient mask the mistake of performing an activity that is not important. Importance is gauged by contribution to our high priority goals. Important tasks that are not urgent require initiative and perseverance. Since frequently there is no pressure for them to be done today, this week or even this month, these activities must be motivated by our commitment to their ultimate value. Urgency calls for immediate attention.
Urgent matters come into our life demanding action.
They are more an interruption than a contribution to our own priorities. Examples are a telephone call, fax message, e-mail, knock on the door. Following are various combinations which can help us evaluate proposed tasks. These activities obviously have the highest current priority because they deal with significant results and require immediate action. Although not on the schedule, they elbow their way to the top of the list.