Control Your Time, Control Your Life

Time is extremely precious resource because we only have a limited amount of time in our lives, and once it's gone, it's gone forever. It can never be replenished. Time is important because it provides us with opportunities to grow, learn, create meaningful relationships, create and experience a fulfilling life.

Lack of control on our time is one of the major causes of stress. Therefore learning how to effectively manage our time and taking complete control it is crucial.

Here are some proven time management techniques that have personally helped me improve productivity. I would like to share them with you:

1. Prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance. This helps you focus on what truly matters and avoid wasting time on less important tasks. One of my favourite tools for prioritising tasks is Eisenhower Matrix. It is a simple but effective tool that can be used by anyone looking to improve their time management skills. It categorizes tasks into four quadrants, based on their level of urgency and importance.

Create this 2x2 matrix on a spreadsheet and then write all your tasks in appropriate boxes. Ideally you should be spending most of your time in completing tasks in the Second quadrant (important but not urgent). If you are not focussing on accomplishing your tasks in the Second quadrant, then eventually all these tasks become urgent and important (First quadrant). Tasks in the First quadrant create a lot of anxiety and stress. First quadrant is generally where fire fightings happen. A lot of First quadrant tasks is avoidable if we spend majority of our efforts in planning and completing tasks in the Second quadrant.

Dwight Eisenhower once famously said:

"What is important is seldom urgent and what is urgent is seldom important"

2. Use Pomodoro Techniques to avoid procrastination: The pomodoro technique is a time management method developed by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s. It involves breaking work into intervals, typically 25 minutes in length, separated by short breaks. These intervals are referred to as “pomodoros". The core idea is to work with focus and intensity for a set period of time, followed by a short break to refresh the mind. After several pomodoros, a longer break is taken. This technique aims to improve focus, motivation, and productivity by breaking work into manageable chunks and avoiding burnout.

3. Create a to-do list and break down larger tasks into smaller, more manageable ones. This will help you see what you need to accomplish, and give you a sense of progress as you complete each step and motivate you to accomplish more.

4. Eliminate distractions and set aside specific times for checking emails and messages. This helps you stay focused and avoid interruptions that can waste precious time. Avoid multitasking, as it can be inefficient and increase stress. Instead, focus on one task at a time and give it your full attention.

5. Take breaks regularly to recharge and maintain focus. This will help you avoid burnout and stay motivated.

6. Stay flexible and be willing to adjust your plans as necessary. Life is unpredictable, and sometimes things come up that require your attention. Being able to adjust your plans as needed will help you stay on track.

7. Regularly review and evaluate your use of time. This will help you identify areas for improvement and make any necessary adjustments to your time management techniques.

A deep awareness of the importance and value of time is a hallmark of highly successful individuals. Remember, effective time management is a discipline that requires ongoing commitment and practice. Its ultimate goal is to enhance your quality of life and allow you to make the most of your limited time. By consistently applying effective time management techniques, you can reap the benefits of a more productive, stress free and fulfilling life.