Effective Time Management

Master your time usage and become extremely productive.

Important steps to effective time management:

1. Organizing

Plan your daily, weekly, and longer term goals. Based on these goals develop a “to do” list.

Establish your own mission statement, which clarifies your goal. Once you've created this personal mission, you should have a better means of linking your actions to your goal.

The more organized you are, the more effectively you will be able to use the 24 hours in each day. Make a list of everything you want or need to get done. Don't think about which tasks are most important, just write them all down.

Here are some ideas to keep in mind when creating your lists:

• Always have a mission statement above your list. You should have many mission statements and a list of tasks under the respective statement. These mission statements will keep you focus on your goals.
• Make your list realistic and maintain a healthy balance between the tasks you want to do, the tasks you feel you should do, and the tasks you have to do.
• Establish a daily routine and be determine to get into the habit of doing the tasks. Every crossing out of task upon completion, should motivates you to get to the next.
  

2. Prioritizing

Prioritize the items on your “to do” list according to importance and do the most important tasks first.
Don't procrastinate! Do not leave tasks for the last minute. It's the least effective way of getting things done.

3. Scheduling

Now that you have your prioritized list of everything you need and want to do, you should look at your schedule to fit in your day. Don't try to plan out every minute of your day. Your schedule should be flexible and realistic. Leave room for break and socializing.

4. Concentrate

Complete one thing at a time. The amount of time you spend on a task is insignificant, rather you should think about have effectively your time was spent.

3. Relax

Be sure to pamper yourself, avoid the old adage, “all work and no play.”

4. Avoid Unnecessary Clutter

Organize your work space and you will feel organized. By removing clutter you can often feel calm and prepared.

5. Don’t be afraid to say NO

When you are asked to perform a task you aren’t committed to and does not benefit your goals, don’t waste your time, say "NO" to the request.

6. Slow Down!

• Find a time during the weekend to take off your watch, go slow.
  
• Choose a weekend to sleep late or just relax!
• Go to a beach and enjoy the breeze.
• Meet up with family or friends for dinner and enjoy the conversation.
• Have a nice wine.
• Make time for spiritual renewal. Talk to God.

Always review, evaluate, and prioritize your short and long term goals on a regular basis.

Life is Meaningful When You Set Goals and Work Towards Achieving Them.