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Time Management Tips

While we can't actually manage time, we can manage how we use our time. At home or at work, check out the following suggestions for easy steps you can take to make the most of your time and cut down on stress. Take time to live well!

Time Management Tip #1: Plan for success!

• Making a list is helpful, because your can write things down in order of importance, and check things off as you finish them. This helps show you that you can accomplish your goals.
• If you are having trouble getting started, begin with the easiest things on your list.
• Ask "What's the best use of my time right now?" If something else is more important, then do it!
• Recognize that sometimes it's more important just to get things done, than to try to make everything "perfect."
• When do you have the most energy? Plan to work hard during those times, and use your less energetic times to relax.

Time Management Tip #2: Get Organized!

• Know thyself. Learn when and how you work best. Plan the hardest work when you feel most active. If you find it hard to work when you feel too warm or cold, bring in a fan or a small heater. Sometimes better or different lighting can help you be more comfortable as you work.
• Clean up the clutter. Schedule 10 to 15 minutes each week to clear your work area of junk mail, old papers, and other clutter.

Time Management Tip #3: Get rid of distractions!

• What is one of the biggest time management mistake people make at work? Not realizing how much time they waste. Time bandits - like unclear goals, junk e-mail, meetings that do not have a clear focus - steal our time and are cause stress.
• Defuse distractions. If you're spending too much time on the phone, keep an egg timer at your desk and hold calls help you set a limit. If you're constantly walking around obstacles, consider a change of floor plan. Take steps to reduce noises that distract you.

Time Management Tip #4: Try New Ways to Tackle a Task!

• Don't try to reinvent the wheel. Watch and learn from others, and if you're having trouble getting a specific job done, ask others for suggestions; you may have overlooked a short cut!
• Conquer procrastination. Try the "Swiss cheese" method when you are avoiding something - break the job down into smaller tasks, and do just one small piece at a time. Soon you'll reach a point where you'll want to finish.

Time Management Tip #5: Make Time for a Reward!

• Reward yourself. Even for small successes, celebrate each goal you meet. Rewards are one way to make sure that you have time for relaxation, exercise, friends and family - a balance between work and play that can help you lead a happier, healthier, and more creative life.

Posted: November 2004