Time Masters: 11 Secrets to Greater Productivity and Life Fulfillment

by Jan Yager

Ever wonder how people become successful? They master time in a way that makes them more productive and prosperous. Jan Yager, author of the international bestseller How to Finish Everything You Start, maps out 11 principles of more effective time management, with each letter in the phrase TIME MASTERS (T-I-M-E M-A-S-T-E-R-S) having a key concept. Those productivity tips stem from original interviews with successful business leaders, entrepreneurs, and creative individuals from around the world as well as the author’s decades of research, coaching, and writing on productivity, relationships, and related subjects.
Dr. Yager's latest book, TIME MASTERS, is a game changer in the world of time management books, offering new insights and examples from a diverse group of achievers. Each concept/chapter is enhanced at the end by one or more exercises to give you a deeper understanding of what you are learning, as you reinforce key ideas, in an interactive and experiential way.
Excerpted from the Introduction to TIME MASTERS:
"To capture the current thinking about how to master your time and become as productive as possible in both your professional and personal life, I interviewed or communicated with several other time management experts, some of whom have published books in this area, including time management consultant David Allen (Getting Things Done), list-making expert Paula Rizzo (Listful Thinking), marketing strategist Peter Shankman (Faster Than Normal), and Mike Vardy (The Productivity Diet), among others. I also interviewed or corresponded with over 125 male and female business owners, entrepreneurs, authors, actors, CEOs, producers, students, professors, cybersecurity specialists, producers, human resource consultants, and others who consider themselves to be time masters, because they are successful in business...."

PRAISE FOR TIME MASTERS:
“A fresh, creative take on time management, this book blends practical tools with personal insights. The T-I-M-E and M-A-S-T-E-R-S frameworks are easy to remember and powerful to apply. Whether you're seeking more productivity, peace, or purpose, this guide offers actionable wisdom to help you master your minutes and your mindset.”
—Scott Friedman, author, Celebrate! Lessons Learned from the World's Most Admired Organizations

“Our brilliant founding father, Ben Franklin, famously said, ‘Time is Money.’ If you agree even a little bit with Ben, buy Jan Yager’s Time Masters today. Don’t procrastinate.”
—Jeffrey Fox, bestselling author, How to Become a Rainmaker

“Jan Yager’s energy and organizational talent jump off the page and she’s covered the waterfront on the top of managing time in Time Masters. Well done!”
—Lynn Kaplanian-Buller, Director, The American Book Center, Amsterdam

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Author of 60+ award-winning books, translated into 35 languages, Dr. Jan Yager practices what she preaches. The principles she learned writing her first book on time management, Creative Time Management, published by Prentice-Hall in 1984, served her well as she went on to marry Fred Yager and raise two sons while continuing to write 7 more books on productivity. The daughter of two loving workaholics, Jan is committed to work-life balance.

385 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 27, 2025

About the author

Jan Yager received her BA in fine arts from Hofstra University, her MA in criminal justice from Goddard College, and her PhD in sociology from City University of New York Graduate Center. Beginning in her early twenties, with fulltime positions at Macmillan Publishing Company, followed by Grove Press, Jan has been an editor, director of subsidiary and foreign rights, acquisitions editor, book publicist, author event planner, media trainer, consultant, book coach, permissions editor, and award-winning author of 65+ books. Her titles in a range from genres -- from nonfiction and fiction to illustrated children's books and poetry -- have been published by Simon & Schuster, Scribner, Doubleday, Penguin Random House, Square One Publishers, and self-published through the small press she founded almost 30 years ago, Hannacroix Creek Books, Inc. (Her first five books were published under her maiden name of J.L. - Janet Lee- Barkas.) For more on Jan, go to: www.drjanyager.com, www.whenfriendshiphurts.com, or www.hannacroixcreekbooks.com

Reviews

[Heldi A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished Time Masters by Jan Yager, and it’s an exceptional guide to mastering productivity while maintaining balance in life. Yager’s T-I-M-E M-A-S-T-E-R-S framework is easy to remember and packed with actionable exercises that can be applied immediately. What sets this book apart is how it blends insights from top achievers, practical tips, and mindset strategies. Whether you’re a professional, entrepreneur, or just someone looking to get more out of your day, this book offers clear, inspiring, and results-driven advice. Highly recommended for anyone serious about using their time wisely and living a more fulfilled life.

[Anne Tyler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Time Masters by Jan Yager offers a clear, structured approach to productivity that actually works. The T-I-M-E M-A-S-T-E-R-S framework makes the ideas easy to remember, and the end-of-chapter exercises help turn insight into action. A smart, practical guide for anyone who wants more control over their time.

[Olabode Ayomiposi · Rating 5 out of 5]

A practical and motivating guide to mastering time and priorities. Jan Yager’s TIME MASTERS stands out for its clear framework, real-life examples from successful people, and hands-on exercises that make the ideas easy to apply. The book goes beyond productivity tips, connecting time management with life fulfillment in a realistic and inspiring way.

[Aims To · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book reframed how I think about time—not as something to control, but something to collaborate with. The TIME MASTERS framework is memorable, practical, and surprisingly human. What stood out most was how the advice came from real achievers across different fields, not just theory. The exercises at the end of each chapter made the ideas stick instead of fading away after reading.

[Carlos J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I appreciated most about Time Masters is how grounded it feels. Jan Yager doesn’t promise overnight miracles—she offers realistic strategies backed by interviews and experience. Some chapters resonated more than others, but overall, this is a solid guide for anyone serious about improving productivity without burning out.

[Chris J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unlike many productivity books that obsess over hustle, this one keeps circling back to fulfillment. The emphasis on both personal and professional life made it feel balanced and sustainable. The TIME MASTERS acronym is clever, but more importantly, it’s usable. This is a book I’ll return to, not just finish and forget.

[Liam E. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Time Masters feels like the culmination of decades of thought, research, and lived experience. Jan Yager’s ability to synthesize interviews from such a diverse group of professionals gives the book real depth. The exercises were a standout for me—they turned reading into action. This isn’t just about doing more; it’s about doing what matters.

[Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’ve read David Allen or other productivity experts mentioned in this book, you’ll appreciate how Time Masters builds on those ideas while adding fresh perspectives. The interviews give it credibility, and the structure keeps it organized despite covering many topics. A strong addition to any productivity shelf.

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is both motivating and practical. Jan Yager reminds readers that time mastery isn’t about rushing through life, but about living with intention. The real-life examples and thoughtful exercises make this a powerful guide for anyone seeking productivity with purpose.

[Sophia Botch · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book helped me rethink how I use my time on a daily basis. The TIME MASTERS framework is simple to remember and surprisingly practical. I appreciated the exercises at the end of each chapter because they made the ideas stick.

[Dvonne James · Rating 5 out of 5]

A strong resource for professionals and entrepreneurs, Time Masters blends research, expert interviews, and real-world experience. Jan Yager’s insights are realistic, actionable, and easy to implement, making this a valuable addition to any productivity library.

[Bennette · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was introduced in our book club and it ended up being one of the most practical reads we have had. The TIME MASTERS framework is easy to remember and apply. I started using the ideas right away

[Hannah Blanco · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read many productivity books, but this one stood out because of the interviews and real world examples. It feels grounded in experience rather than theory. I found myself highlighting several sections.

[Charles · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I appreciated most about Time Masters is its focus on balance. This isn’t just a productivity book, it’s about creating a fulfilling life while managing responsibilities effectively. The advice feels achievable and grounded in real experience.

[Jacob M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr. Jan Yager delivers clear, no-nonsense strategies for managing time more effectively. Each chapter offers practical lessons supported by exercises that help reinforce learning. This book is ideal for readers who want real results, not just theory.

[Dunamis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Time Masters goes beyond scheduling and to-do lists by addressing mindset. The book encourages readers to rethink how they view time and success. It’s thoughtful, empowering, and packed with insights that stick long after finishing.

[Ronald · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect for busy people, this book breaks productivity into manageable concepts. The chapters are concise, well-organized, and filled with useful examples. Jan Yager respects the reader’s time—and helps them do the same.

[Donald · Rating 5 out of 5]

Backed by interviews with high achievers and productivity experts, Time Masters feels credible and well-researched. Jan Yager’s experience shines through, making this a trustworthy guide for improving both work efficiency and personal satisfaction.

[Henry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading Time Masters felt encouraging rather than overwhelming. The advice is practical and realistic, making productivity feel achievable instead of stressful. A great read for anyone feeling stretched too thin.

[Isabella · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book focuses on real outcomes. The exercises at the end of each chapter help translate ideas into daily habits. Jan Yager provides tools that readers can immediately use to improve how they manage their time.

[Bella D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

The T-I-M-E M-A-S-T-E-R-S framework is one of the strongest aspects of this book. It organizes complex ideas into an easy-to-follow system that’s both memorable and practical. A refreshing approach to time management.

[Olajide Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

Clear, insightful, and practical, Time Masters is a standout in the productivity genre. Jan Yager delivers meaningful guidance that helps readers take control of their time and live more fulfilling lives.

[Michael Stone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Time Masters offers a calm, thoughtful approach to productivity that feels sustainable. Jan Yager emphasizes intention over urgency, helping readers rethink how they spend their time without pressure or guilt. The exercises make the ideas easy to apply in daily life.

[Nicolas · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book you can actually use. Jan Yager presents realistic strategies that fit into everyday routines, not idealized schedules. The structure and examples make it easy to turn insights into habits that last.

[Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jan Yager has a clear, confident teaching style that makes complex productivity concepts easy to understand. Each chapter builds naturally on the last, making the book both engaging and useful from start to finish.

[Paul T · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you feel overwhelmed by endless tasks, this book offers practical relief. Jan Yager breaks productivity into manageable steps that feel achievable rather than exhausting. A reassuring and helpful guide.

[Louise · Rating 5 out of 5]

There’s a lot to unpack here—almost too much at times—but that’s also its strength. Each chapter offers a different angle on time management, and readers can choose what fits their life best. I didn’t agree with everything, but I found enough valuable ideas to make the book worth the read.

[Joe · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book quietly changed my daily habits. Not in a dramatic way—but in small, lasting shifts. I found myself rethinking how I schedule, prioritize, and even rest. Jan Yager’s approach feels compassionate rather than rigid, which made it easier to apply.

[Jade D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked the acronym-based framework—it helped the lessons stick. Each chapter felt intentional, and the end-of-chapter exercises reinforced the main ideas well. Some sections felt repetitive, but overall the structure made a long book feel manageable.

[Evans Cathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Time Masters is both encouraging and empowering. It reminded me that productivity isn’t about perfection—it’s about awareness and intention. The real-world examples made the advice believable, and I appreciated how inclusive the book felt across professions and lifestyles.