There is a saying:
Why is it that busy people can get things done, but you struggle just to do everyday tasks? What are they doing that you can copy so you can get on top of things?
The ability to plan and organise your time effectively is a skill that can be learned and improved with practice.
When you manage your time well you can:
- Get more done in less time.
- Reduce stress and anxiety.
- Improve your productivity.
- Achieve your goals more easily.
- Have more time for the things you enjoy.
If you’re looking to improve your time management skills, here are ten of my favourite tips:
Ten-Time Management Hacks
.1. Set Goals and Priorities
When you know what you want to achieve, you can set clear goals for yourself and prioritize them with what’s most important.
.2. Plan Your Time
Make a schedule that outlines your tasks and deadlines.
.3. Break Down Large Tasks Into Smaller Steps
Large tasks can be daunting and appear overwhelming. Instead, break them down into smaller, more manageable steps. This will make it seem less daunting, and help you avoid procrastination.
.4. Set Deadlines
Nothing like having to get something done by a due date to push you along and to keep you on track.
Get a friend to check in on you. If you are like me outside accountability keeps me on track.
.5. Eliminate Distractions
“Oh look a dog with a pink fluffy tail”. Easily distracted? Turning off your phone, even putting it in another room can keep you focused and on task.
Apps like “Forest“, are also great distraction apps, because who wants to kill a tree they have planted?
.6. Take Breaks
It’s so important to give yourself some downtime.
Go spend some time in nature, you’d be surprised at how spending some time outside can give you clarity.
.7. Reward Yourself
When you have completed a task or a goal, reward yourself with something that you enjoy.
It could be as simple as a new pen, a new notebook, a coffee date with a friend, or sitting down and reading a book.
.8. Be Flexible
Not everything is going to go according to play. Be prepared to adjust, sidestep, pause or stop as needed.
.9. Delegate tasks
It is so easy to want to do everything yourself. Because then you know it’s going to be done right.
Delegating tasks doesn’t make you a failure. It will allow you to free up your time so you can focus on the more important things. It can also improve your productivity and efficiency.
.10. Say No
Say no to requests that will take up your time and energy, or simply do not serve you.
While these hacks work for me, it’s important to find time management techniques that work for you and your lifestyle. Experiment with different strategies and adjust them as needed.
Whatever skills you decide on, it can only improve you’re lifestyle. By learning how to manage your time effectively, you can achieve your goals, reduce stress, and have more time for the things that you love and enjoy.