What are the most effective time management strategies for high-stress periods?

1 Prioritize and plan

The first step to managing your time during high-stress periods is to prioritize and plan your tasks. Identify the most important, urgent, and valuable tasks that you need to complete, and rank them according to their impact and effort. Then, create a realistic and flexible schedule that allocates enough time for each task, as well as breaks, contingencies, and buffer zones. Use a calendar, a planner, or a digital tool to keep track of your progress and deadlines, and review and adjust your plan regularly.

2 Delegate and outsource

The second step to managing your time during high-stress periods is to delegate and outsource some of your tasks. You don't have to do everything by yourself, and you can leverage the skills, expertise, and resources of others to help you achieve your goals. Identify the tasks that you can delegate or outsource to your team members, colleagues, partners, or freelancers, and communicate clearly your expectations, instructions, and feedback. This will free up some of your time and energy for the tasks that require your attention and input.

3 Set boundaries and limits

The third step to managing your time during high-stress periods is to set boundaries and limits for yourself and others. You need to protect your time and energy from distractions, interruptions, and demands that are not aligned with your priorities and goals. Learn to say no to requests, invitations, or opportunities that are not essential or beneficial for you, and avoid multitasking, procrastination, or perfectionism that can waste your time and reduce your quality of work. Also, establish clear and respectful boundaries with your clients, coworkers, managers, or family members, and communicate your availability, needs, and preferences.

4 Optimize and automate

The fourth step to managing your time during high-stress periods is to optimize and automate some of your processes and systems. You can use technology, tools, or techniques to streamline, simplify, or speed up some of your tasks, and reduce errors, redundancy, or complexity. For example, you can use templates, scripts, or checklists to standardize your outputs, or use software, apps, or bots to automate your emails, invoices, or reports. You can also use shortcuts, hacks, or tricks to enhance your efficiency, effectiveness, or creativity.

5 Balance and recharge

The fifth step to managing your time during high-stress periods is to balance and recharge your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. You need to take care of yourself and maintain a healthy lifestyle that supports your performance, productivity, and happiness. Make sure you get enough sleep, rest, nutrition, hydration, and exercise, and avoid substances, habits, or behaviors that can harm your health or mood. Also, find ways to relax, unwind, or have fun, and seek support, guidance, or inspiration from your friends, family, mentors, or role models.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?