Managing a precious resource like time is essential to a productive and happy life. What if you have spent time prioritizing and scheduling your day and still struggle with getting things done? What now? Here are 5 steps you can take to effectively manage your time.

1.EMAIL

Set aside specific times to check your email. Do you check your email first thing in the morning? Do you check your email as soon as you get on your computer? STOP! Don’t keep checking your email all day long. Set aside a couple times a day  to check, go through and answer your email. Follow a new rule: Read each email once, and deal with it. Going back over the same emails is a waste of your precious time. By dealing with your email when you receive it, you are less likely to let things fall through the cracks.

2. DISTRACTIONS

Distractions are part of life. An essential step to better time management involves managing your distractions. Close your door, put your phone on silent, no FB or Email at this time! I know you need a break, but taking a break in a middle of a work cycle can disrupt your flow and prolong your tasks. Just because your phone rings doesn’t mean you have to answer it right away. Did you know that once you are distracted, it takes 23 minutes to get back on task? If you want more information on distractions, Check out this article

3. TIME TO SCHEDULE

When you are scheduling your day, make sure you set aside to actually manage your schedule. Set aside 15 to 30 minutes at the end of your day to go over what you accomplished, what you couldn’t get to, and then make your schedule for the next day. For every task that you didn’t complete, ask yourself why that happened. If you just couldn’t get to it, put it on the schedule for the next day. If you are blocked, ask yourself why, and examine the purpose of the task. Really looking at the purpose of a task helps can help you focus on accomplishing it.

4. SCHEDULE BREAKS

Our brains work better when we take breaks. When you are scheduling your day it is essential that you make time to take five to ten minute breaks throughout your day. Do you eat lunch at your desk? You may think you are being more productive, but actually taking a lunch break will refresh you. When you return you will be refreshed and possibly be able to come up with a solution to any issues. These breaks will help you be more productive and relaxed.

5. LET GO

Don’t take things too seriously. If something doesn’t get done, let go. Recognize what happened to prevent you from accomplishing your task. Make any necessary changes, forgive yourself and let go!

If you enjoyed this post and would like help implementing time management strategies in your life, schedule a complimentary 30 minute strategy session with me. Click here to schedule