Time management is a challenge for many people. In fact, we all have moments when we find it difficult to organize ourselves. It is important to approach the problem from a constructive point of view and not blame yourself for not managing your time better.
In fact, instead of feeling bad, use the situation as an opportunity to learn and move forward. Focus on identifying areas where you can make adjustments and develop more effective skills. However, you have to realize that you won’t achieve this overnight, because it takes time and practice, so you have to be patient. Learn how to do this in this article.
How can you manage your time better?
A study published in the Journal of Psychology examined the effects of time management training and time control on the work environment. The results showed that this capacity positively affects the perception of control and the reduction of stress related to delays at work.
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Similarly, a meta-analysis published in PloS One noted that time management is moderately associated with job performance, academic performance and well-being. So, how can you adjust your schedule to benefit from better time management?
1. Set clear goals
Define your goals both in the short and long term. This practice will help you focus on the most important tasks and prevent you from getting too involved in less relevant activities.
2. Plan your day
Take a few minutes at the beginning of each day to create a to-do list and an action plan. Planning helps you focus and organize yourself, which leads to better time management. You can plan daily or weekly. Make use of apps on your mobile phone (writing it down on a piece of paper works well too).
3. Prioritize important to-dos
Identify your most relevant tasks and make sure you tackle them first. Creating a hierarchy will help you move forward and avoid distracting yourself with less urgent tasks.
4. Eliminate distractions
Identify the main distractions in your environment and minimize or eliminate them, be it your cell phone, social media or unnecessary conversations. This will help you to concentrate.
5. Use time management techniques
There are several proven strategies that are beneficial to productivity. For example, the Pomodoro technique. This method involves working in blocks of 25 minutes followed by five minutes of rest. Also useful is the Eisenhower matrix, where tasks are ranked according to their importance and urgency.
You can also try grouping (grouping similar tasks and doing them together) or blocking time (assigning specific blocks for specific tasks).
6. Delegate where possible
If you have the option, delegate certain tasks or hire outside help. This will allow you to free up your time to focus on more important activities.
7. Learn to say no
Don’t feel obliged to accept every task that comes your way. Learn to assess your priorities and say no to things that don’t fit your goals or are a burden.
8. Organize your workspace
A cluttered work environment negatively affects your productivity. Take the time to organize and you will notice that your day is more enjoyable and productive.
9. Take advantage of downtime
Use free moments, such as when traveling on public transport or in a waiting room, to read or listen to podcasts on topics related to your personal or professional development.
10. Take care of your health
Don’t neglect your health and well-being when trying to improve your time management. Make sure you get enough sleep, exercise and eat a balanced diet as these factors increase your energy and ability to concentrate.
“If you lose an hour in the morning, you will spend the whole day looking for it.”
Technology and time management
The overuse of smartphones and other technologies is one of the biggest obstacles to managing time well. Here are some of the effects of these devices:
Constant distractions. Every time you check your cell phone to answer messages or check social media, you lose time that could be spent more productively.
Procrastination. Smartphones, tablets and computers offer a wide range of entertainment. If you find yourself putting off important tasks to surf the internet, play games or watch videos, you are probably neglecting your responsibilities.
Lack of focus and productivity. Excessive use of technology affects your ability to focus on tasks for long periods of time. Jumping from one app to another or constantly checking notifications distracts you and reduces your productivity.
Wasting time without realizing it. When using technology you often fall into a kind of ‘time trap’. It may seem like you’re just checking your social media or responding to a few messages for a minute, but in fact minutes or even hours pass without you realizing it.
Better time management and technology
The use of technology is not bad in itself. You just need to find a balance and use it consciously and maximize your productivity so that you can enjoy more free time.
For example, set specific moments to check your phone. Turn off unnecessary notifications and only turn on urgent or important notifications.
Also, give yourself some time away from technology. Do activities away from the screen during these periods, such as reading a book, socializing or taking up a hobby. As contradictory as it may sound, certain apps and productivity tools help you manage your time better by blocking certain websites or apps during certain periods. They also track and limit the time you spend on them.
You also need to practice self-discipline. Learn to resist the urge to check your cell phone or use technology in a non-productive way. Focus on your important tasks and goals.
The relationship between time management and enjoyable activities
Time management and enjoyable activities are intrinsically linked and influence each other in various ways. First of all, when you include things you enjoy doing in your daily plans, your motivation and commitment increases. In fact, it acts as an incentive to organize and complete your tasks.
Doing what you are passionate about increases your focus and productivity. This is reflected in other areas of your life. Also, incorporating activities you love into your routine encourages harmony between your work and leisure time, which means you feel fulfilled and relaxed with healthy emotional well-being.
In addition, the time you devote to enjoyable activities takes you away from the pressures and demands of everyday life. This allows you to regain your energy and face your responsibilities with a calmer and more positive mindset.
Balance your obligations and rest time
It is important to find a balance between the activities you enjoy and your responsibilities so that you can enjoy your free time and increase your productivity and overall satisfaction in all areas of your life.
Ultimately, learning to manage your time effectively is an ongoing process. Instead of blaming yourself when your schedule doesn’t work, try to adopt a growth mindset and focus on solutions. Acknowledge your progress and keep a positive attitude towards your development.
