I must admit that I’m no pro at time management, but for me, it’s always a work in progress. I’m always looking out for new strategies – learning what works and what doesn’t.
Here are my time management tips.
Write it down. Making lists of your to do’s is extremely important, as well as, keeping it visible. I keep a little notebook with me at all times. Leaving it out and in the open just makes it easier for you. You can always reference it quickly and see what’s next or how much still needs to get done! I like to do this on Mondays – I set out a plan for the week of things I know I need to get done and then throughout the week I add other tasks that come up.
Keeping it simple. Being independent makers, we will always find things to add to our lists and it will just keep growing and growing. We need to focus on what is important, what is priority and learn how to break it down. We need in front of us, tasks that are manageable and can be completed within our set time frame. I always have a huge on-going list that I add to all the time and when I make my week’s schedule – I select things off that list. That way I’m working with smaller daily lists that are manageable instead of that enormous can’t see the end list.
Schedule interruptions. Well, you can’t really do that but you have to expect it. For example, your trip to the post office might take on average 10 minutes but you know how it goes – sometimes it can take about 30-40 minutes. You just never know! Your significant other might decide to surprise you and come home for lunch while you’re in the middle of a task.
Follow a routine. This is different for everyone. But if you find one that works for you, stick with it. Routines can still be flexible. I’m learning what my routine is as I go. You may work better in the afternoon or at night. Whatever it is, go with it and stick to it. Productivity is the goal.
Block out distractions. All forms of social media should really be turned off when it’s work time unless you use these tools to generate business. I sometimes fail at that. We need to be able to distinguish when we are being productive and when we’re just waisting time with distractions.
Set the alarm or timer on your phone. This is a great way to work on a task for only a set amount of time and then move on to the next. Sometimes, I get so wrapped up in a project that my whole day will be sucked away and everything else gets neglected and pushed. So now I use my phone to remind me that that was enough for now and to move on to the next task.
Schedule in break time. This is something I still need to work on. I can go the whole day without having lunch, which is unhealthy and unproductive so I don’t recommend it. It’s easy to forget to take care of ourselves in the middle of getting things done but it is the most important part. Our body and mind is the driving force behind our work, our creations. How can we get anything done if we don’t take care of it? Some fresh air, a light meal and some sunshine can change our entire perspective.
Learn to say No. Know what you can handle and work with that. You don’t have to take on the world or everything that comes your way. Remember that quality is always better then quantity. You probably produce better work when you’re not stressed the *bleep* out with jobs piled high. There are some people who can do it and it’s okay if you’re not. Just own what you can handle.
Schedule in media time. In order to block out distractions while you work you can set allotted time for checking emails, twitter, facebook, etc. You can set multiple time slots through out your day allowing you to stay on top of it and not consumed by it.
Don't over schedule yourself. Allow room for flexibility. Besides my normal everyday to dos, I give myself only 2-3 tasks everyday. I’ve learned that I can’t handle more then that. I end up being overworked and unhappy. If I finish my tasks, go me!! I then look for other things to do from my bigger list. Know what you are capable of.
Organize and declutter. You wouldn’t believe the time wasted just looking for things. Keep your workspace clean and organized. It’s easier on your mind and when you need something, you’ll know exactly where it is.
Do you have any tips or strategy on time management? I'd love to hear!