Time Management Tips

We live in a fast-paced environment where every second is crucial. Over the years, we have learned that time management is key in order to be successful. Ask yourself – are you able to accomplish projects with ample time or do you pull all-nighters? If you find yourself struggling to manage your time efficiently, the time management tips below might help you change your habits. Get an organizer Having a central location for up-coming events, meetings, and night-outs will not only help you stay organized but on track. You can plan ahead if you see you have a busy night coming up. Planning is key to time management. As the late Winston Churchill said, “He who fails to plan is planning to fail.” Make a daily to-do list Creating a daily list of the ‘must-dos’ helps you stay organized and stay on top of everything going on in your busy life. The list can include anything from homework, projects, and household chores. Prioritize your tasks from the most important to the least important, and attack the most important task first. Once those important tasks are done, you will have a sense of accomplishment! Know your deadlines This is very important. You have to know when these important deadlines are coming near so you can allocate the right amount of time needed. Note deadlines in your organizer, phone or wall calendars to help provide a clear picture in your head. It’s ok to say ‘NO’ Knowing you limit is key! Saying ‘NO’ to an outing, when you know you have to write a paper that is due tomorrow is okay. We tend to take on more than we can handle, which can cause more stress, which none of us needs. Reconsider another date or time that would be more beneficial to you and others involved. Productivity Zone Identify your most productive time. Are you an early riser or a night owl? Knowing your most productive time zone will help you produce the best results! Turn off Distractions Distractions can cause major deviation from your daily plan. Although we cannot avoid all distractions, we can minimize some of the un-necessary ones. Remember to turn off your social media notifications when trying to accomplish a task. Do not respond to text or emails when doing crucial work that must get done. Turn off the phone or set it to airplane mode when you have a daunting task ahead so you can focus.