In January and February 2011, I attended a two-part session on time management by Heartwork Organizing. Here’s a list of 25 strategies I obtained from that session with the ones I am working on in bold. Let me know three of the 25 strategies you think you could use.
- Keep a weekly (not daily) to-do list.
- Note 3 top priorities/projects/tasks to complete each day.
- Using the 80/20 rule (only 20% of your tasks are most important), ensure the tasks in your 20% are the first ones you tackle.
- Carry your planner everywhere, even to church, gym, and dates/appointments.
- Be aware when you are making a commitment to yourself and others.
- Make written appointments with yourself, and keep them as routinely as you would with your hairdresser.
- Separate making your to-do list from accomplishing your to-do list.
- Separate projects from tasks.
- Schedule time on your calendar to work on projects.
- Never check your email before __(insert customized time here)__.
- When working on projects at your computer, don’t leave your email and browser programs open.
- Use a sheet of paper as a “time container” and only write until full.
- Use “sticky notes” as disposable containers, not permanent records.
- Use “Prince/Princess time management” because you are a Son/Daughter of the King.
- Keep your calendar free enough to entertain angels.
- Beware of the latest electronic gadget as a time waster.
- When spinning, ask “What is the next thing I have to do?” and do it.
- Build in rewards for your efforts (e.g, I will get a snack after I finish this proposal).
- Remove technical issues when they exist.
- Ensure written goals are SMART: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Time-bound.
- Practice conscious breathing. Schedule it if necessary.
- Decide if your tasks pass the five-year test. (What’s going to be important five years from now?)
- Use a time to chunk out unpleasant/large tasks 15 minutes at a time.
- Learn how to use your cell phone or microwave timer.
- Prioritize people over things.
Not all of these are practical tips for me. For example, I wouldn’t check my email before 5:30 in the morning because I’m likely sleeping, but if I don’t check it before noon, I’m at work where I really can’t view it. It’s also the primary means of contacting me during the day.
This Journey Is My Own 