Do you take control of your time and daily schedule, or do you let time control and dictate what you do throughout the day? To improve your time management skills, you must learn how to control your time more efficiently. This practice can be easier said than done. Start building your time management skills with the tips below.
Start by Listing Your Priorities
Most people believe they will be more productive with a to-do list. However, this list can become long and daunting, not to mention that you’re not organizing it. Listing your priorities lets you preview what deadlines are coming up first. Smaller yet more important lists with priorities make finishing these tasks less of a hassle and give you a sense of accomplishment.
Understand Your Productivity Pattern
Not everyone is productive at the same times throughout the day. You may cross off more things from your priority list in the morning, while your partner is more productive at night. Knowing your productivity pattern can help you manage your time better because you’re leaving the most critical tasks for the time of day when you have the most energy. For example, complete your most difficult work projects during the time of day you feel the most refreshed, and save the small tasks for when you’re feeling less efficient.
Download Time Management Apps
One of the best ways to better manage your time is with technology! You can improve your productivity with phone apps that help plan, schedule, and remind you of things during your day. For example, if you have several appointments or meetings throughout the day, these apps can remind you so that you don’t have to worry about remembering when everything is. Download any apps that help you organize notes, plan your day, or stay on track with completing your priority list.
Limit Distractions
You can’t improve your time management skills if distractions take over your day. For instance, if you sit next to your favorite co-worker at work, are you talking the entire time or respecting each other’s work schedule? Try to limit your distractions by sitting away from that co-worker. You can always plan breaks throughout the day to talk with this person. Know what your biggest distractions are so that you can limit them for better time management efficiency.
When we focus on managing our time better, we can achieve success and live happier lives. In fact, the benefits of this practice are giving yourself more time for the things you love, a better work-life balance, and reduced stress! What do you do to better manage your time throughout the day?