You’re struggling to meet IT deadlines. How can you better manage your time?

2 Prioritize and delegate

Not all IT tasks are equally important or urgent. You need to prioritize your work based on the impact and the deadline of each task. A useful tool to help you do this is the Eisenhower matrix, which divides your tasks into four categories: urgent and important, important but not urgent, urgent but not important, and neither urgent nor important. You should focus on the first category, plan ahead for the second category, delegate or outsource the third category, and eliminate or minimize the fourth category.

3 Use a calendar and a to-do list

A calendar and a to-do list are essential tools for managing your time and staying organized. You can use a digital or a paper-based system, depending on your preference. A calendar helps you schedule your tasks, meetings, and deadlines, and reminds you of what you need to do each day. A to-do list helps you break down your tasks into smaller and manageable steps, and gives you a sense of accomplishment as you check them off. You can also use a timer or a pomodoro technique to set intervals of focused work and short breaks.

4 Avoid distractions and interruptions

One of the biggest challenges of working in IT is dealing with distractions and interruptions. These can come from various sources, such as emails, phone calls, messages, notifications, colleagues, or clients. While some of these may be unavoidable or necessary, others may be irrelevant or unimportant. To avoid wasting time and losing focus, you need to set boundaries and communicate them clearly. You can also use tools such as do not disturb mode, block site, or focus booster to limit or block the access to distracting websites or apps.

5 Review and improve

Time management is not a one-time thing. It is a continuous process of learning and improving. You need to review your performance regularly and evaluate how well you are meeting your goals and deadlines. You can use tools such as time tracking apps, feedback surveys, or self-assessments to measure your productivity and identify your strengths and weaknesses. You can also ask for feedback from your manager, colleagues, or clients to get a different perspective and learn from their suggestions. Based on your review, you can make adjustments to your plan, your habits, or your tools to optimize your time management.

6 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?