Are you someone who can’t seem to manage your time? If you are having problems with time at home or at work, there is a good chance that your problems may be caused by your inability to manage it.
Most people feel overwhelmed with responsibilities and activities, and they find it hard to control what they really want to do so they go with the flow and keep out of control!
Time is the most valuable resource in the universe, it is precious and irreplaceable.
See below 8 simple steps that will help you improve your time management:
- Know That You Have a Problem
Knowing that you have a time management problem is the first step in changing your behavior. If you are always late for work or when attending a social event, it is something that should not be happening on a daily or weekly basis. If this is the case, then it is time for you to realize that you may have a problem.
- Decide To Change
Knowing that you have a time management problem is important, but wanting to change is even more important. In order to change you need to set goals for yourself, as these goals can help to provide you with a source of motivation and accomplishment if completed. Simple goals include showing up to work on time for a whole month, being on time for all dinner dates, and so forth. Ensure that the goals are not too hard that you end up not meeting your goals, get frustrated and give up.
- Stick To Your Goals
Creating a number of time management goals for you to meet is advised, but it is important that you stick with them when you are faced with complications.
“He who every morning plans the transaction of the day and follows out that plan, carries a thread that will guide him through the maze of the most busy life. But where no plan is laid, where the disposal of time is surrendered merely to the chance of incidence, chaos will soon reign.” -Victor Hugo
- Create Daily/Weekly Task Lists
Creating a to do list is an easy way to properly manage your time. You can write down your weekly activity goals, and also write down the day before what you need to do throughout the next day. Be sure to list your tasks in order of importance, and be sure not to put too much tasks or you’ll get overwhelmed.
- Rely On Time Management Tools
Properly managing your time is important, but it can be hard for many individuals to get used to. I am still old school and love writing down everything, some people prefer using their computer. Choose the one that suits you the best. Also, did you know that many cell phones and computers come with alarm clocks, alerts, and so much more? Use them to break down your tasks and you’ll see how easy it gets.
- Learn How To Say No
The ability to say no is closely linked to self-confidence. Don’t wait until your energy runs out before you take a much needed step back to assess the situation. Be clear and honest with yourself about what you truly want.
- Get Organized
Organization is key to being able to properly manage your time. If you are unorganized, you are likely to waste a large amount of time. For example, in the workplace you can waste time by searching for lost or misplaced documents. Organize your desk and put the important task to do in a place where you can see it. The same can be said for the home; if you are unorganized, you can spend hours searching for your glasses or car keys.
- Consider Hiring Professional Help
There will be times where you may not be able to refuse a project at work or a task at home, but try to not take on more than you can manage. Look into using outside help if you can. In the home, this outside help can come from a housecleaner. At the workplace, this outside help can come from a Coworker or a Virtual Assistant.
