An effectime time management system can be adopted by anyone, at any time and in any situation whether it be work related or in a personal nature. Haphazard use of time is a "condition" suffered by the majority in all walks of life and until some time strategies are put into place, then effective time management will be only a "pipedream."
As a web publisher, how I use my time is crucial. There was a time when I wandered through a day without an end target; my productivity was inconsistent and my stress levels often went "through the roof." Can you identify with this? Here are some time management strategies I put into place which have served me well.
Good Time Management System
1. Making a list of things to do sounds like a well worn piece of advice. Well, in actual fact it is but let's be honest, how many people simply ignore this little time effective gem, dismissing it before giving it a try. Making a to do list will give you a starting point to achieve your daily tasks. In effect, it can help neutralize procrastination before it sets in. It's a "must do" time management exercise.
2. Writing a to do is one thing: prioritizing your list is another. Whether you write your list before going to bed ( highly recommended ) or first thing in the morning, list your tasks in order of importance.
3. One thing I found extremely powerful was completing my most difficult tasks first. As a writer, getting going is a tough thing to do. Writing articles for distribution is always hardest when you've already spent most of your day working. I simply prioritized my to do list by making my article writing the first item of my work day. It's amazing how much more creative you can be when your mind is fresh. Writing is a chore most detest so why leave it until late in the day when tiredness is fast creeping in.
4. My work day used to finish whenever I completed my last task. Not anymore. Since prioritizing in order of importance, I am now very comfortable in holding over work to the following day. My work day starts at 8:00am religiously every day and finishes at 3:00pm. There are no exceptions. Working from home gives me a few advantages and one is my short commute to my office. During those seven hours I am focussed on productivity. After 3:00pm, it's time to relax and get in a little recreation. An effective time management system for me has meant that I now have a good balance between work and play.
5. Creating a good balance is vital in maintaining low stress levels. I have trained myself in achieving this through a personal reward system. It's my end-of-the-day goal. When the clock strikes three, I know I have been extremely focussed and productive. Now it's time for my reward. This can be anything you want it to be. In my case, all I will say is that my house is just a short stroll to the local beach!
An effective time management system doesn't have to be complicated. Don't get hung up on the term time management. It is what it is. It's what best suits your situation. Work out a plan for yourself then stick to it.
