Poor time management is one of the top causes for stress, right up there with money and relationship issues. To make matters worse, stress often makes it harder to properly manage your time. People with a lot of stress tend to be more easily distracted, have more to do in less time, and already have so much on their mind that changing habits can be very difficult.
People with poor time management skills often go through the day wondering where their time is going and worrying about finding time to get things done. They are normally overbooked and have little time for themselves or procrastinate to the point there is no way to get things done in time. Many of these people have trouble prioritizing their tasks or are easily distracted, easily getting wrapped up in activities like watching TV or checking their email. Others have trouble telling people "No" or are easily overwhelmed by large projects.
All of those issues cause a lot of undue stress. Luckily, by learning how to manage your time better, you can start letting that stress disappear. Here area few tips for managing your time better and help you get rid of your excess stress.
- Make a list of what needs to get done the next day each day before bed. Doing this at night is better than in the morning because you start your day already having a list of what you need to do.
- Always prioritize your tasks. Get the most important tasks done first.
- Schedule your tasks. Figure out about how long they will take and decide what time you will do them. Be sure to plan in some breaks and room for any unexpected tasks!
- Learn to say "No" if you don't have time to do something. If you are having trouble finishing what is already on your plate, don't add more!
- Delegate if you can. Sometimes that is the best way to get everything done. Have a pile of work to do but also need to mow the lawn over the weekend? Perhaps you should take a little time and find someone to take care of that lawn for you.
- Don't forget breaks! Try and plan to get up and walk around for about 10 minutes every hour. Sitting in one place isn't good for your body or your mind and the breaks will help keep you from getting distracted easily.
- Break your big projects into small, manageable chunks so you don't get overwhelmed.
Once you are getting the hang of things you can also start looking into time management systems like the Pomodoro technique, based around using timers to make sure you take breaks and help keep your mind on track. There are many options available that can help you get the most out of your time.
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