Time Management Tips for a Streamlined Life
& a balanced work life
Work and school from home has become the new normal. Whether you, your family or your roommates have plans to return to the real world or not… its always a good idea to freshen up your time management skills. Managing your time does not have to be a limiting stressor in your life. In fact, it should actually allow you to have more designated free time to spend on the passions and people you love.
While scheduling every minute of every day might not work for you, here are five tips for improving your time management skills:
1. Know Your Parameters
Spend some time analyzing the environments you work best in. It could be anything from a quiet home office to a bustling noisy coffee shop, there is no wrong answer. Maybe for certain projects it’s better to spend time alone rather than in a collaborative group or vice versa.
Understanding how you draw energy and focus could be a great way to pinpoint your work style. Are you an extravert or an introvert?
Also, maybe for certain projects its best to invest some time into an outdoor walk to clear your head rather than spending extra time at your desk. Knowing your best practices will help you stay on track with your time.
2. Put Away Distractions
While not all of us have the luxury of few interruptions and responsibilities its still important to limit the ones you can. Remove social media notifications and put that nonstop group chat into “Do Not Disturb”. I promise it will all be waiting for you after your allotted work time.
Also don’t be afraid to limit your computer’s ability to interrupt you with email notifications. Sometimes spending an extra couple minutes in the zone is more productive than being constantly on top of your email account.
3. Schedule Your Week
If you have tried everything else but a schedule it might be time to give in. Sometimes your schedule will fill up so much that it seems obvious when to set aside time for independent work. However, the practice will allow you to pinpoint moments where you can maybe take a break.
The best way to schedule your week is to note your priorities. Not everything is an urgent task and its important to make the distinction. Go easy on yourself where you can, your energy is precious.
4. Make a List Every Morning or Evening
Okay, so maybe you have tried a schedule and its not for you. Try making a list! Set aside five minutes every morning or evening (your choice) and jot down a to-do list. It can be as simple as a couple errands and to answer an email but having it written down will help you stay on track.
5. Communicate Your Needs
Finally, don’t forget to express your needs. If you live with family or many roommates, it’s important to set respectful boundaries. Having those tougher conversations can really make everyone’s life a little easier.
I hope these tips can help you on your way to a better time management system. The last fifteen months have changed the world so much that maybe it’s time for a refresh for everyone!
