The Myths and Facts of Time Management

Time stops for no one and whether you are a housewife or a stock broker time is always on the mind. Procrastination is the sharpest blade in the set of tools your ego uses to dull your life and waste your time. Procrastination not only takes up time but also literally takes days off of your life. With a simple look at time management one can simply end the confusion and the inadequacy that comes with procrastination. By following and practicing these simple steps one can learn to manage time and live a fuller and happier life.

First, learn to get rid of unnecessary activities. It’s quite possible there are a few things you like to do that get in the way of work which must be done. Hobbies are a great way to remove the stresses of the day and enjoy yourself but if you find that some of the activities you partake in are a time sink look to remove these from your daily schedule or at least consolidate the time. For example too much TV or internet surfing when you could be finishing up a report for work is a huge waste of time and can obviously wait until after work is done, remember work always comes before play! For example if you seem to watch too much TV too frequently try to cut down on the time you watch daily and catch up later through the use of a device such as TIVO or Hulu.com.

Second, make a list of things you want to accomplish. Through the use of a schedule or a daily planner one can plan out and accomplish short and long term projects while still maintain the time to finish all of life’s other callings. I often write a short to do list every night before bed and take into account the time at which I will requisite into doing the task allowing a lot more to get done, try it!

Third, punctuality is key. At work and home starting early means the difference between success and failure. Simply waking up earlier could provide an opportunity to catch up on the news before you have to waste time at work to do it. Not only will it improve time management but it will also improve the esteem of yourself and the respect from your peers.

Finally, set limits. Situational analysis is always important and the ability to adapt is easily what breaks the gap between time management and time sinking. Do not set more time than you need on simple tasks and allow more time to accomplish the more difficult ones. If you find that you need more time or finish early adapting is key. For example if you finish a task early immediately move onto the next and if you feel as if you need more time for an important task then either cut down on others or simply push them to another day.

Time management is probably the most important thing you can learn but the only person who can truly teach the subject is the person in the mirror. Adapting these tips to your lifestyle will allow an influx of extra time in your schedule and will help you finish your goals both large and small.