Do you feel like there are days that get away from you? If you encounter this issue frequently, then it could be due to a lack of organization. There are moments when we all step away from the structures of life to find some peace, but a routine which includes time management can help you to retain your focus during the most challenging of days.
You might feel overwhelmed by the length of your to-do list or struggle to get moving because your energy levels feel low. When you can embrace a routine that includes organization, then it takes less time to do more.
If you are ready to schedule your priorities instead of prioritizing your schedule, then here are some time management tips that can help you to maximize the potential of each day.
Best Ways to Optimize Your Time
The average person wastes about 40% of their time at work. Constant interruptions, pointless meetings, and excessive email are all robbing you of your productivity. Follow these tips to take back control.
1. Plan for Tomorrow Today
You need to focus on what is critical instead of what feels urgent. There will always be distractions available if you look for them. That is why it is imperative to plan your to-do list for tomorrow before ending your day today. You will have more clarity in what needs to be a priority because you are not dealing with the stresses that occur in that moment.
2. Focus on One Big Task
It is easy to get caught up in the tasks of managing daily needs, but you cannot lose sight of your higher goal. When you start the work of optimizing your day, try to create moments where you can take the next steps forward on your journey through life. Make your vision become the priority instead of the minutia that robs you of your time. Then create an environment where distractions are minimal to keep up your levels of productivity.
3. Tackle the Tough Stuff
People make themselves busy because it provides a mechanism for procrastination. If it feels like you are working, then you can excuse the fact that an unwanted task remains incomplete. Instead of avoiding the thing you dread the most, tackle it as the first problem to solve each day. Then everything else which comes along won’t seem as challenging to finish.
4. Give Yourself Time Blocks
Focus on one item from your to-do list at a time instead of jumping back-and-forth between tasks. By scheduling time in specific blocks where you can maintain a singular focus, you’ll have more productivity because there is less wasted time. Each transition can take away up to 15 minutes. There are various strategies for this time management tip, although blocks of 60 minutes or less tend to be the most effective. Then give yourself a 5-minute break between blocks to transition your creative energy to the next assignment.
5. Combine Common Tasks
Did you know that your productivity declines by up to 40% if you attempt to do multiple tasks simultaneously? If you want to manage your time wisely, then look for ways to group similar items on your to-do list instead of attempting to juggle everything at once. Try to respond to every message (email, voicemail, texts, etc.) in one of your time blocks, and then create your content (written, graphic design, video creation) in the next one.
6. Take Another Break
Your brain needs to rest if you want to remain productive. When you begin to feel fatigued, then your focus levels go to that issue instead of staying on the task you need to complete. After you complete three cycles, give yourself a 30-minute break where you can do something fun and relaxing. Then repeat your time blocks. You might have a highly productive day skipping breaks here and there, but working constantly will eventually catch up with you.
7. Be Accountable
Some people have the self-discipline to follow these time management tips by themselves. If you struggle in this area, then you are normal. Have a trusted friend or family member encourage you to stick with your new schedule. Let them call you at appropriate times as a reminder to take a break. When you know that a summary of your choices will be reported to someone, then there is a greater chance that you will follow through on this commitment.
Time Waits for No Man
Maintaining productivity can be a challenge, but these time management tips can help you to optimize each day. They will help you to develop useful strategies that will accomplish more than you ever thought possible!
