How to Manage Time

Do brief tasks between appointments.

Stress and disorganization go hand in hand. Lower your stress levels and become more productive by taking control of your time. Effective time management will not only help you accomplish your goals, but also improve your health by diminishing stress-related headaches, shoulder pain and digestive issues.

Instructions

1. Start your day early enough to exercise and eat breakfast. Breakfast improves your concentration and productivity. Include milk, fruit and grains. Avoid sugary foods, such as donuts, biscuits and sodas. Eat protein snacks throughout the day to refuel your mind and body.

2. Think positively on the day. Empower yourself by not allowing negative thoughts to drain your energy. Shift your state of awareness when negativity strikes by getting out of your chair and moving around. Look at difficulties as challenges rather than roadblocks.

3. Plan long-term goals and break them down into short-term goals. Set aside time each week to review your goals and adjust your schedule.

4. Plan out your day, prioritizing tasks in order of importance. Focus on the most important tasks first -- don't be distracted by small tasks on the list. Allow sufficient time to do quality work for each task. Avoid committing to nonessential tasks and delegate chores that don't necessitate you being there.

5. Break large, intimidating tasks into doable 10-minute sections. This may give you the momentum you need to finish the task.

6. Take small breaks throughout the day to recharge your energy. De-stress by deep breathing, stretching or taking a walk.

7. Check your progress in the middle of the day. Evaluate your list to ensure you complete the most important tasks remaining. For positive reinforcement, look at the progress you have made throughout the day.

8. Review the time tasks took you to complete throughout the day. Underestimating your time leaves you stressed. Overestimating your time creates gaps in time that you could use more constructively.

9. Get sufficient sleep. Lack of sleep depletes memory and concentration, thereby decreasing productivity.

Tips & Warnings

• Limit distractions in your work area by closing the door and turning off nonessential electronics.

References

• "Inc."; Decrease Stress, Increase Productivity; Marla Tabaka; Nov. 15, 2010
• "Entrepreneur"; Make the Most of Each Day; Romanus Wolter
• Successful Academic: How You Spend Your Time is How You Spend Your Life
• Mayo Clinic: Time Management: Tips to Reduce Stress and Improve Productivity
• University of Florida IFAS Extension; The Importance of Breakfast; Claudia Penuela

Resources

• "Entrepreneur"; How to Manage Your Time; Tom Hopkins