One of the most challenging things when it comes to succeeding at work is managing time. There’s a lot to get done each day and that means knowing how to navigate a growing to-do list. Whether you’re new to the working world or you’ve been in a challenging career for years, learning some simple tips for managing time is always a welcome bonus.
Sometimes the hours get away from us – there are distractions, interruptions and every once-in-a-while it’s just difficult to pay attention. But, regardless of the situation we all have things we need to accomplish and that means figuring out a way to get it all done. No matter what, learning how to manage your time will help you make room for success and give you the tools to continue on the up and up. Not sure where to get started? Here are five simple tips for managing your time.
5 Simple Tips for Managing Your Time
#1. Work in order of priority. Somethings this can be tough because everyone wants everything yesterday, but you have to be able to consider the priority of projects. Some things just need to be accomplished asap, while others can wait a day or two. When the todo’s seem overwhelming, it’s time to sit down, make a list and put everything into the order it needs to be accomplished in.
#2. Make a plan. Going into the day without a plan happens to all of us, all of the time. But, think about the days that you do have a plan – it’s incredible. When you know what’s coming your way and what you need to do in order to get things done, you can work smarter rather than harder. Try to take five minutes each morning to get an understanding of what you need to accomplish and even if you don’t have time to make a formal plan, quickly map it out in your head. Your day will thank you for it.
#3. Keep your calendar up to date and, if you don’t use a calendar, start. Having a calendar not only helps you plan for what’s ahead, but it also keeps your coworkers informed of when you’re already busy. Use the calendar to block off time to accomplish certain activities too – not just for meetings scheduled by someone else. Let’s say you have a big proposal to write and you know it will take you at least two hours. Book time on your own calendar, with yourself to sit down and get that done with no interruptions.
#4. Don’t say yes to everything. Even though we face a lot of pressure to say yes to an overwhelming number of projects and tasks, you have to learn to say no. And, be OK with it. Drawing a line with your limitations is important so that you can complete things that you’re already working on. Only you know what you can handle from a workload perspective and that means it’s on you to draw the line too.
#5. Make work/life balance an absolute priority. Everyone needs a break every once-in-a-while. Fresh air is something that changes your whole perspective, especially when you have a lot of work on your plate. Remember you’ll be better at your job, you’ll accomplish more and things will actually start flying off that to do list, if you also give yourself some time to breathe and walk away from work. Need a break? Go for a run in the middle of the day. Take a walk for 15 mins or even practice mindful breathing or meditation. It’s OK to need a break…you’re only human, remember?
Here’s the thing – you can be your absolute best and position yourself on a path toward success, but you have to be sure you’re able to get it all done and that means, having a course of action that works. Finding that sweet spot between work and play will also give you just the right amount of time to rest and rejuvenate – coming back at your absolute peak performance level. How are your time management skills? Could some of these tips be worked into your day?
