There are more strategies available for better time management than there are seconds in a month, and new methods are being introduced daily. While the effectiveness of any single "system" may be difficult to discern, it is clear that there are some behaviors one should avoid when trying to maximize his or her efficiency. We may not always know the best way to handle time, but we certainly know a few things to avoid. Let's look at two common time management errors to avoid.

It's all about Will Power

It's easy to tell ourselves that the only thing standing in the way of better time management is increased discipline. If we could only be tough and dedicated, we say to ourselves, we could avoid wasted hours and redirect them toward productive pursuits. All it will take is a supreme act of will.

That mode of thinking has ruined more efforts to improve time management skills than one might believe. Here's why: the will is invariably weak. Our humanity is formed, at least in some measure, by our inability to resist temptation. It is certainly shaped by our tendency to embrace and reinforce habits. Trying to wish away those traits with a bit of will power is unlikely to produce results.

Yes, dedication is important. Success, however, is far more likely when that commitment is accompanied by a removal of time-wasting temptations and other concrete steps to make a fall from time management grace less likely.

The Danger of Precision Timing

Many who embark on their first effort to improve their time management skills begin by constructing daily schedules. Mere "to-do" lists are inadequate. They feel the urge to plan their day and their actions to insure maximum efficiency. That intuitive strategy can actually be quite disastrous.

When things run long or when an unexpected happening occurs, the tightly-constructed schedule doesn't yield. It simply becomes more crowded and the list-keeper's unwillingness to accept the fact that life doesn't comport to a schedule results in things not getting done on schedule. Soon, one is a few days behind schedule with little opportunity to catch up. Often this precipitates a decision to give up on better time management.

One should never put too much faith in will power. Nor should they expend too much effort trying to list out every project with a precise time limit. Both of these errors will quickly derail a time management improvement activity.

You may not be certain which time management strategy will fit you best, but you can be sure that avoiding the twin pitfalls mentioned herein will increase your chances of effectively taking control of your life.