Does time just slip away for you?

Today I thought I’d write about time management.  Whether running a business,  managing your own home, time plays an important factor.

Are you finding that you start the day with good intentions of what you want to get done, but somehow find yourself at the end of the day, having not carried out those tasks.

This can be for many reasons such as you constantly struggle with distraction. 

Distractions could be a person distracting but can also be your own mind focusing on other things.  Impulsivity also plays a role where you end up leaving your task for something else.

Recognising what distracts you is the first step to making a change.

For example, if you are someone who cannot focus for too long, my suggestion would be to set yourself small goals.  These are little tasks that take a maximum of 20 minutes.  Setting yourself a timer is important.  Not only so that you can tell yourself that you only need to do your task for that amount of time, but also as a way to recognise what you have done.  Give yourself a treat, play your favourite song etc.  The key thing here is to give your brain a break.

If you are someone who is constantly distracted by colleagues and/or family members, it’s important to share with them that you cannot be disturbed, unless it is really urgent, during the next 20 minutes.  This is a reasonable amount of time for people to wait. 

If you are disturbed, rather than you leaving what you are doing, think about a question you could ask them.  The aim of this is you are encouraging others to make their own decisions or know where to look to find something.

When finding it is your own mind that is stopping you from focussing on your task, ensure you have a pad or technical device with you so that you can jot down your thoughts and then return to your task.  Putting a U (urgent) or an I (important) will help you prioritise what you need to do first after your task.

Another reason for not getting your tasks done may link to not having a routine.   The aim is to create a habit where you know on x day at x time,  you do a certain task.  Consistency is key to managing time.   

I hope these few tips help you implement an approach that will work for you. 

If you need help managing your time at home or in your role, please contact me:  Vickig.organisedandproud@gmail.com

In the meantime, have a great day and here’s to getting some of your tasks ticked off your list.