How often do you find yourself running out of time? Weekly, daily, hourly? It seems that there’s just never enough time in the day to get everything done.
Most people struggle with getting things done on time. For some it is only a temporary inconvenience, but for others it can be a way of life. They find time management difficult because they cannot say “no” or delegate tasks, have too many activities, or cannot plan effectively.
However, when you know how to manage your time, you gain control over your life. Rather than trying working here, there and everywhere (and not getting much done anywhere), effective time management helps you to choose what to work on and when.
The following tools may help you to manage your time better:
Setting goals
Compile a list of all activities due for the following week. Check your own, your spouse’s and children’s activities and write them all down on a notice board. You can then figure out what exactly needs to be done and in what order.
Prioritising
Prioritise personal and work activities and allocate enough time to complete each task. Without it you may work very hard and long, but you won’t be achieving the results you desire because what you are working on is not of strategic importance. Get rid of unnecessary activities or the ones that can be delegated.
Procrastination
When we procrastinate, we put off important tasks we should be doing until it is too late. And when it is indeed too late, we panic and waste our free time. There is truth in the saying “procrastination is a thief of time”.
Managing interruptions
Interruption is a natural and necessary part of life. Do what you sensibly can to minimise it without scaring colleagues or family members away. Do leave time for the unexpected.
Scheduling
Time management comes down to the effective scheduling of your time. When you know what your goals and priorities are, you then have to create a schedule that keeps you on track and protects you from stress.
By creating a schedule that reflects your priorities, leave room for interruptions, allow for contingency time for unexpected events as well as supports your personal goals you have a winning combination.
Sources
Beeld, 5 October 2011
http://www.mindtools.com/pages