Sometimes it seems like there\u2019s never enough time to accomplish everything we\u2019d like to. The problem is often our time management skills\u2014or lack thereof. But no need to worry: you can easily improve your efficiency once you realize that it\u2019s merely a combination of intelligent planning and focused efforts. To get started, here are five ways to find more time in your day.<\/p>\n
1. Create a to-do list. <\/strong>When we are given multiple tasks, it\u2019s hard to store every bit of information in our brains. Creating a to-do list and putting a timer on assignments will keep you focused and more prepared to tackle each task. Having a list enables you to mark off the tasks you have completed, giving you a sense of satisfaction. I find that physically writing a list of tasks can be more beneficial when it comes to accomplishing daily tasks. Not only is this method simple and easy to edit, it\u2019s more accessible when you complete each task. If any tasks remain incomplete at the end of the day, it can be transferred over to tomorrow\u2019s list. This is an easy way of preparing a to-do list for the next day; it will allow you to hit the ground running the next morning without having to waste time figuring out what to do next.<\/span><\/p>\n 2. Set realistic goals.<\/strong> Juggling too many things at once is not only exhausting, but can also be time consuming. Instead of setting yourself up for failure by trying to accomplish too many tasks, set realistic goals about what you can do and what you need to let go of. Goals that are far out of reach can easily lead to procrastination. Instead of focusing on long-term ambitions, commit to assignments that you are certain you can accomplish that day. Focusing on short-term marks will help you stay on track, and will make your long-term goal much more manageable. Begin by setting one target at a time. As you get that goal under control, slowly add more to your list.<\/span><\/p>\n 3. Prioritize tasks. <\/strong>Not every task is equally as important as the next. Creating a list of tasks and arranging it by priority will help you plan out your day. Get through the urgent assignments first so that you’re not pushing up against deadlines. Take into consideration any negative consequences that might occur if a task is not completed on time, or how many people could be impacted by your work. Understand that your priorities will change and uncertainty will arise when you least expect it. The trick is to stay focused on the tasks you\u2019re committed to doing right now. When it feels like you’re sinking under a million different deadlines, this tool helps you to reflect on what’s really important and what can wait.<\/span><\/p>\n 4. Minimize distractions. <\/strong>Whether it\u2019s answering a phone, checking personal email, or browsing the internet, there are always interruptions that prevent us from getting the job done. Regaining your concentration after a distraction can take more time than you realize. Learning how to minimize disruptions can allow you to get into a rhythm, produce high-quality work, and achieve much more during the day. Consider scheduling specific times to check and respond to phone calls, text messages, and emails. For instance, you could check messages when you first arrive at work, at lunch, or right before you leave every day. To avoid constantly checking your texts, put your phone in a drawer. When you’re not using your email, close it completely or turn off the alerts. As for eliminating internet distractions, keep your browser closed when you’re not using it. If you repeatedly check social networking sites like Facebook or Twitter, log out of your account.<\/span><\/p>\n 5. Take breaks. <\/strong>Spending more than eight hours at a desk without moving around leads to less energy and increased levels of stress and frustration. Productivity is not measured by the number of hours you sit at a desk\u2014it\u2019s about how much you get done without sacrificing your health. Taking time to walk away from a project allows you to maintain focus and reduce stress. Take a short walk away from your workstation. Stand up or stretch at your desk without looking at your computer. Stand up whenever you take phone calls. Have a drink of water or a small snack. These are all great ways to rejuvenate and improve your productivity.<\/span><\/p>\n Photo credit: Lauren Kallen<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Sometimes it seems like there\u2019s never enough time to accomplish everything we\u2019d like to. The problem is often our time management skills\u2014or lack thereof. But no need to worry: you can easily improve your efficiency once you realize that it\u2019s merely a combination of intelligent planning and focused efforts. To get started, here are five […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1544,"featured_media":18761,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[43902],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-16284","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-professional-development"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n