Time is the ultimate equalizer—everyone gets the same 8,736 hours a year. Yet, for financial planners juggling complex responsibilities like client meetings, market analysis, strategic planning, portfolio assessment, and more, it can often feel like there are never enough hours in the day. So, how can financial planners regain control over their time and enhance their productivity? According to the FPA’s research, successful strategies revolve around three key areas: strategic focus, structural efficiency, and personal productivity.

This article explores best practices for managing time effectively and increasing daily productivity in the financial planning industry.

Mastering Time: Essential Strategies for Financial Planners

Many financial planners grapple with time management and productivity, feeling overwhelmed by the demands of their roles. If you feel this way, you’re not alone. The latest FPA Time Management and Productivity Study reveals that despite significant time investment in their businesses, only a small fraction of advisors feel in complete control. Specifically, only 13% feel fully in control of their time, and just 10% feel they have a firm grip on their business operations. More than half of advisors feel out of control in both areas. Yet, there’s a silver lining—73% of advisors believe they have more control now than when they started their careers. So, the challenge isn’t about finding more time; it’s about effectively managing time to propel advisory businesses forward.