The time is the only resource on Earth distributed equally to all of us. There are only 24 hours per day for everyone. How we manage and take advantage of it will determine the outcome of our life. Whether you enjoy it or you spend it all stressed out, it is all up to you. I’d like to think that most people are managing their activities in such a way that they find time to do all they want. Unfortunately, things are far from being so. To make sure you are among the ones who spend their time wisely, follow our time management advice. Have a look at our 5 methods to manage your time better.
1. For a fresh start, start in the morning
The brain has the most intense activity in the morning. Morning meaning 6 AM to 10 AM. All difficult projects that require concentration must be done within this timeframe. By 10 AM you should have done all your first priority tasks. Spend the afternoon doing less stressful activities.
2. That is all we can take
Studies revealed that humans can manage at the same time a maximum of 10 tasks. You go over that … and this is where stress shows up. The really bad news is that we perceive as a task any object within our visual range located less than a meter away. Yes, including mail inbox, desktop icons, office papers and so on. Order in physical and virtual space means a greater ability to focus on what really matters.
3. Put yourself first
You should be the most important person for yourself. You have the highest priority. Make sure others know that. Absolutely no phone calls, emails or Skype messages between 6 AM and 10 AM. If there is a real emergency ask them to send you an SMS. Check your email only 2-3 times a day. No pop-up alerts, funny sounds or other stuff. Sort your emails, group them into categories that make sense to you and transform them into tasks. Do all that is needed to be sure no one will disturb your focus. Our brains need 60 to 90 seconds to return to the same level of concentration as before we were interrupted.
4. He’s making a list and checking it twice
Manage your time better by making a list. Include in your schedule all events that you want to happen. Start with those in your personal life. We often forget that our career is just a personal development tool and a source of income, to be used in our personal lives. No matter how much fun you have at the office, which is obviously advisable, when the working hours are done, all your tasks should be completed. Also, make sure the agenda for the next day is already set.
5. Be your best version
A clear mind cannot live in a damaged body. If you are tired all the time or your back is hurting you, you will not be able to manage your time better. As a result, you will fail to focus and concentrate. Make sure you get enough sleep, exercise in the morning to boost your energy level and have 10 minutes breaks each one and a half hours.
There are much left to discuss on this subject, but I will stop here. I want to know your opinion, your time management methods. Let me know in a comment below. I hope you’ll find enough time to do it. Thanks!
Tip: if you are on this path to improve your productivity and the quality of your life I also suggest you learn how to be more prosperous. Have a look at an infographic about how to manage your financials.
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