Time is constant and irreversible. It can not be substituted, once it is lost or wasted, it can never be regained. Time stands still for no one. We cannot stop it, slow it down, nor can we speed it up. Therefore, we need to learn how to effectively manage time.
In learning how to manage time we have to be careful that we don’t go overboard. We can get so deeply involved with creating folders and lists, color coding tasks and separating paperwork into priority piles that we began to waste time trying to manage our time. There must be a balance; you want to use personal time management techniques that are simple. If they are too complex you will quickly give up and return to your old habits of wasting time.
The first step in taking control of your personal time management is to analyze how you are spending your time. Then once you have identified your time wasting methods, implement a few simple time saving techniques that will help you gain the most of your time.
Effective personal time management is crucial to accomplishing tasks as well as avoiding wasting valuable assets. The following nine personal techniques will help you with your personal time management.
- Get Started – The number one time waster. Most people waste as much time avoiding a project as it actually does to complete the project.
- Get Into A Routine – When you do not have a well written routine or plan and you are unfocused and scattered. This type of behavior curbs your creativity. When you establish a routine and do it on a daily basis time and energy are released and your creativity flows. Choose a time to get certain tasks accomplished such as answering email, working on a project, completing paper work, and stick to it everyday. Find a calendar/planner that is simple, easy to use and fits your needs.
- Do Not Say Yes to Too Many Things – Saying yes to too many things can lead to an unexpected treasure of wasted time. It also causes you to live up to the priorities of others, rather than our own. When you agree to do too many things, something will go lacking and something important will not get done. We must learn how to say no!
- Do not commit yourself to unimportant activities, no matter how far ahead they are. Rule of thumb, if it was in their near future, would you do it? Let’s say if it was in two months as opposed to one year, would you do it? If the answer is no, then don’t commit yourself to it for the near future either.
- Divide Large Tasks – Large tasks should be broken down into a series of small tasks. This also allows you to fit it into your schedule and not be rushed or panicked at the last minute.
- Do Not Put Unneeded Effort Into A Project – Save perfection for the tasks that need it! Know when to stop and move to the next project. If you can’t figure something out go do another project and then come back to the first project. You will see that it will come together easier and your mind is more clear than when you attempted the project the first time.
- Deal With Things Once – often times we start a task think about it and then lay it aside. Sometimes you may do this several times before you get started. When you receive a task you have two choices, either deal with it right away or decide when to deal with it. If you decide to deal with it later then schedule it on your calendar or planner so you will not forget about the task.
- Always Set Start and Stop Times – At first your estimations will be a little off but as you practice this daily your estimates will improve.
- Plan Your Activities – Schedule a regular time to plan your activities and allow yourself the time to plan them wisely.
Remember to continually learn and research personal time management skills, techniques and ideas. As you learn, teach others and you will see that your life will become more organized at home, on your job and in your business and you will own your life!
Wishing you an Abundance of Success,
April Page
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About April Page
