Tips on Time Management

Everyone has the same amount of time in a day. Because of the need to manage time effectively, people use various time management tools. They have desk planners, personal time management software, digital organizers and virtual assistants.

These tools are useful. But the need to have full control, not knowing how to prioritize and perfectionism are some of the contributing factors for poor time management.

So learning time management skills is important. Being able to manage time effectively helps reduce stress. It helps you achieve a work-life balance. You will get more things done and improve productivity and effectiveness. You will learn to value time, say No, organize tasks and make full use of your resources.

Tips on Time Management No. 1 - Self Analysis

You must know how you have been spending your time. Your busyness doesn't necessarily mean that you have been productive and efficient. If you haven't been monitoring your daily activities, start now. Get an activity journal or a note book. Record everything that you do at each hour.

At the end of the day, go through your journal. Find out what you have accomplished? Check how long it took you to finish each task? Take a look at the time you have allocated for your family and activities that benefit your health. Total up the time you use for travelling, to check emails, chatting, running errands, updating your status on social network sites and watching television? Do the same analysis at the end of the week.

Tips on Time Management No. 2 - Plan Your Week and Days

If you have done the self analysis, you would already have a clear picture of how you have been managing your time. The next thing is to start a "things to do" list. Write down everything that you wish to accomplish for the week. Pick each item and place it on your daily to do list and sort them in order of importance.

This exercise is important. It is your guide to move you in the right direction. It helps you avoid wasting your time on unimportant things. You will also learn to value yours and other people's time.

Tips on Time Management No. 3 - Prioritize

In the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Stephen Covey stated that if we use our time doing the important but not urgent things, we will be able to avoid things from becoming important and urgent. So follow your list and start your day doing the most important thing first even if it is the most difficult thing to do. Simply start it. As you continue, you'll find that you are able to finish it. And when you make it a habit and a routine, it gets easier.

Tips on Time Management No. 4 - Break Down Your Tasks

To avoid feeling overwhelmed and stressful, break down your goals, tasks and plans into smaller chunks and manageable pieces. And set a time frame to finish each task. This is one of the best ways to overcome procrastination.

Tips on Time Management No. 5 - Delegate or Outsource

Delegating and outsourcing are time savers. There are some things that you don't have to do yourself. Delegating lessens your workload and yet you get things done. By delegating, you can focus your energy or more important task. It is also one of the ways to train and motivate your assistants to perform better.

If you have read the 4-Hour Work Week by Timothy Ferriss, you'll understand the benefits and advantages of outsourcing and that you can outsource almost everything. By outsourcing some jobs such as writing reports, data entry, lawn care and housekeeping, you have more free time to spare.

Tips on Time Management No. 6 - Focus on Quality

When you do something, focus on quality and do it well. Avoid making mistakes so that you don't have to repeat or make corrections. If you delegate or outsource a task or job, define your goal clearly. Provide detailed instructions and guidance or training. It may take up extra time but it's worth it.

Tips on Time Management No. 7 - Get Organized

Get organized and clear the clutters on your desk. Check your tray and email inbox on a scheduled time. Unsubscribe to mails that you don't open and don't hesitate to throw or delete mails that you don't need to take further action. Organize your filing system, computer files and stationeries so that you don't have to waste your time looking for them when you need them.

Tips on Time Management No. 8 - Be More Assertive

Say "No" to unimportant things and to people who don't know how to value time. By being assertive, you avoid distractions. It will enable you to stay on schedule and complete the tasks that you have set out to do. But you do have to use your judgment and be flexible if an unavoidable thing happens or if someone needs immediate attention.

Tips on Time Management No. 9 - Make Good Use of Waiting Time

Include a personal growth activity such as reading in your daily schedule. You can accomplish this task during your waiting time. Carry a book and a notebook along with you. Read or take notes while waiting for someone or something. And listen to an audio recording when you are stuck in a traffic crawl.

Register for a Time Management Course

Attend a time management training course if you need professional help.

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