With
the end of the fiscal year quickly approaching, we often encounter folks who
are stretched too thin facing numerous conflicting deadlines. So, we thought
this would be the perfect opportunity to share a few time-management skills.
Some of the following tips are strategies we’ve implemented and found to be
effective, while others are frequently mentioned in time management articles.
We know there are numerous ways to manage your time and re-prioritize, so let us know if you have any time management strategies by leaving a note in the comment section below.
Time Management Tips
1.
Make
a to-do list that prioritizes upcoming tasks and estimate how long each task will
take. Work on the most time-sensitive tasks first and set a plan for
accomplishing the other tasks. It’s important to be realistic about the time
things will take, and as a general rule it’s better to overestimate the time
you think it will take to complete each activity.
2.
Determine
the time(s) of day you are most productive and/or do your best thinking. Try
to work on more demanding/important tasks during those times to maximize
efficiency.
3.
Break
down big projects into smaller tasks that are more manageable to
accomplish within limited time.
4.
If
you find that you have a spare half-hour or small period of time, don’t waste
it. Use it to accomplish one of the shorter tasks on your to-do list.
5.
If
you’re spending a lot of time on one task and aren’t getting very far, then
take a short break. You’ll be more productive once you’re re-energized.
6.
Try
to stay off of emails and turn your phone on silent when you are in the middle
of a big report or task. Reading and responding to emails, calls, or text
messages will distract your focus.
7.
It’s
OK to say “No.” (when appropriate). Your time is valuable, and it’s important
to set priorities and boundaries.
8.
Make
use of idle time—waiting in line at the grocery store, being in traffic,
sitting on the train—by reflecting on what you’ve accomplished and your goals
moving forward.
9.
Unless
you need to use social media for work, set short limits (10 - 15 minutes at the beginning or end of the day) on the amount of time you spend
on social media sites.
10. Remember not to skimp on sleep. Being well-rested allows for a clearer mind, and will
make you more efficient so that you can accomplish everything that needs to be
done.
Sources:
Refine The Mind: http://www.refinethemind.com/21-time-management-tips/
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