I can pull off the facade of being organized, but that only gets me so far. I’ve got the planners, my to-do list is ready, but what next? With too many things to do in the day, and not enough hours how are you expected to complete it all? The truth is you don’t, things get moved to do a different list for a different day, but somehow it’s the end of the week and you’re still no closer. All you need to know is how to manage your time, and I’ll show you some tips for you to do it effectively!
1. Stop procrastinating
I’m always in my head, so if I’m not criticizing then I’m wasting time convincing myself that I haven’t got the energy to start a certain task. Just do it.
Use the Eisenhower method
Now that you’ve stopped procrastinating focus yourself on a task you want to work on, regardless of the length. The perfect place to start is prioritizing your tasks. Start by putting them into categories:
Urgent
Non-urgent
Important
Not important
Do your urgent and important tasks first, and then work your way through non-urgent, and eventually not important! You’ll see your day moving a lot quicker, and easier.
2. The Pomodoro technique
The technique involves taking your tasks and putting a twenty-five-minute timer on them. Once the time is completed you take a short break away from your task. And then continue again and again. It will keep you inspired, and help you have a clear head. It can increase productivity by sharpening your focus, which means you won’t be spending too long on a certain piece of work.
3. Block out the distractions
Stay away from Facebook, and all social media altogether. If you must, wait till your lunch break to catch up on Instagram’s latest. But when trying to knuckle down just put your devices to the side. We managed without them once upon a time…
4. Keep yourself on track with an app
There are many apps that will help you maximize productivity, and do all the menial bits you simply haven’t got the time to do. Toggl is a good app to point out where you’re wasting your time. It will keep track of all your team’s projects and focuses on improving productivity and accuracy. Remember The Milk is good if you’re forgetful like me, there’s nothing worse when you remember something you should have done hours ago! But, no more, the app will send you reminders, even text messages!
5. Take advantage of your spare time
Now I’m not talking about cramming in your work on a Sunday. I’m talking about actual spare parts of time where we could be doing something. Take your commute, for example, I use my commute for almost everything – and it helps me get loads of work done. I’ve even written an article on the way into work that I had no time to fit in during the day. Fill the gaps!
LET’S CHAT
What takes up most of your time?
