Why do we always feel like we can’t get everything done that we need to? No matter how hard we try, the to-do list never seems to end. Time management is a skill that so many of us struggle with in our daily routines. So, what’s the answer? How can we manage our time more efficiently to ensure that we make room for our hyper-productive lifestyles?
The first step is to really understand our individual habits and patterns. Once we have a realistic view on the choices we make each day, we can begin to modify our habits to become more efficient in the things that matter the most to us. Learning to effectively rearrange our schedules will allow us ample time in the 24 hour day to accomplish our goals. Here are 10 ways to remember when trying to be more productive with your time:
1. Identify 2-3 essential tasks that must be completed that day. Trying to aim for anything more than this is too much. You will feel successful and accomplished once you complete these 2-3 tasks, and if there’s time you can move on to the less essential tasks!
2. Be Assertive. It’s OK to say no! We can’t “yes” everyone, so be confident in saying no to tasks you simply don’t have time for. Don’t spread yourself too thin!
3. Get enough sleep. Sometimes we think we should stay up late to complete last minute items on our to-do list. The truth is, we are more productive the next day after a solid night of sleep. Don’t cram things in at the end of the day because you won’t do a good job. Go to sleep and start fresh tomorrow.
4. Multitasking doesn’t work! Stay focused on one task at a time. Do not move onto the next one until the first is complete. Concentrating fully on one task will make you more efficient and you’ll find that you complete it in less time with fewer distractions.
5. Unplug! Turn off the notifications on your phone, facebook, tablets, and gchat while you are immersed in a project. This will allow your brain to concentrate on the task at hand without losing focus to check social media.
6. Don’t try to be a perfectionist. Instead of picking apart the task at hand and finding something wrong with what you have accomplished, think positively about the work you have completed and move forward. You can always go back another time to modify things, but as long as the bulk is completed you have given your all, you are ready to move onto the next task! Let go of the idea of perfection.
7. Allow an allotted time in between tasks for down-time. Giving yourself a 10 minute break to check your email, go for a quick walk, or read a fun article gives your brain a relaxing break it deserves. These breaks also serve as motivation while you are working because there is a reward for completing the task. Remember to pick an allotted time period (5, 10 or 15 minutes) and to stick with that.
8. Create a system of organization that works for you. Write down the time frame of when you are completing which tasks throughout the day and stay true to it. Maybe setting an alarm works best for you and gives you the heads up that you need to move on to the next activity. Perhaps you put a daily calendar next to your bed so it’s the first thing you see in the morning. Organize yourself in a way that works best for you and stick with it!
9. Recognize the difference between the essential and nonessential. Don’t let yourself get bogged down by the excess.
10. Be mindful. Remember to live in the moment and to enjoy the task at hand instead of always thinking one step ahead.
Committing to new patterns and to daily schedules means no more excuses and no more games. Be true to yourself and to your goals. After practicing these tips and finding what works best for you, you’ll develop new patterns that will soon become automatic.
What are time management tricks that have worked for you in the past? What are examples of ways you can implement some of these tips in your own life? Answer these questions in the comments below!
[av_button_big label=’Watch Our Webinar ‘ description_pos=’below’ link=’page,2337′ link_target=’_blank’ icon_select=’no’ icon=’ue800′ font=’entypo-fontello’ custom_font=’#ffffff’ color=’theme-color’ custom_bg=’#444444′ color_hover=’theme-color-subtle’ custom_bg_hover=’#444444′ av_uid=’av-25dyy6′]
Not Enough Time in Your Day?
How to Manage Time More Efficiently
[/av_button_big]
- How to Make a Good Decision - May 24, 2017
- 3 Tips to Better Manage Anger [Video] - March 17, 2017
- 4 Tips for a Healthier Work-Life Balance - February 9, 2017
2 comments
I try to remind myself that it’s ok to prioritize and what I can’t get done today can be done tomorrow.
Hi Nikki,
Thanks for taking the time to do the webinar!
My roadblock to productivity is often a lack of motivation to start planning, so I end up trying to tackle my day without structure. Having a lot to do can be daunting, and sometimes just the thought of dissecting my workload stresses me out! Breaking things down into smaller tasks helps me feel more comfortable with approaching them. Instead of “study for exam today”, it’s easier to say “study 2 chapters from 7-9.”
I think the goal setting and visualization you mentioned in the video often get set aside when I’m too focused on how tedious I think the work will be. I end up stressed before I even start, even though I usually enjoy studying! Maybe dedicating time to appreciate and break down the tasks at hand could help my procrastination.