You're struggling to manage your time. What are some common techniques that can help?

2 Use a calendar and a to-do list

Another essential technique for time management is to use a calendar and a to-do list to organize your tasks and schedule. A calendar helps you visualize your commitments, appointments, and deadlines, and plan ahead for them. A to-do list helps you break down your goals into smaller and manageable tasks, and prioritize them according to their urgency and importance. You can use a paper or digital calendar and to-do list, or a combination of both, depending on your preference and convenience. The key is to update them regularly, review them daily, and stick to them as much as possible.

3 Apply the 80/20 rule

The 80/20 rule, also known as the Pareto principle, states that 80% of the results come from 20% of the efforts. This means that not all tasks are equally important or productive, and some of them may have a bigger impact on your goals than others. Therefore, you should identify and focus on the 20% of the tasks that generate the most value, and delegate, outsource, or eliminate the rest. By applying the 80/20 rule, you can optimize your time and energy, and avoid wasting them on trivial or low-priority activities.

4 Avoid multitasking and distractions

Multitasking and distractions are two of the biggest enemies of time management. Multitasking means trying to do more than one thing at a time, which often leads to lower quality, higher errors, and longer completion time. Distractions are anything that interrupts your focus and attention, such as notifications, emails, calls, or noise. To avoid multitasking and distractions, you should work on one task at a time, and finish it before moving on to the next one. You should also turn off or silence your devices, close unnecessary tabs or apps, and find a quiet and comfortable place to work.

5 Take breaks and recharge

Time management is not only about doing more in less time, but also about doing it well and sustainably. Working for long hours without breaks can cause stress, fatigue, and burnout, which can affect your performance and well-being. Therefore, you should take regular breaks and recharge your mind and body. You can use the Pomodoro technique, which involves working for 25 minutes, followed by a 5-minute break, and repeating this cycle four times, before taking a longer break. You can also use your breaks to do some physical activity, meditation, or relaxation, which can boost your mood, energy, and creativity.

6 Evaluate and improve

The final technique for time management is to evaluate and improve your results and processes. You should monitor your progress and outcomes, and compare them with your goals and expectations. You should also reflect on your strengths and weaknesses, and identify what works and what doesn't for you. Based on your evaluation, you should make adjustments and improvements to your goals, tasks, schedule, and habits. You should also seek feedback and advice from others, such as your peers, mentors, or managers, and learn from their experiences and insights.

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?