It’s the start of a brand new year, and it’s a great time to get reorganized and make some positive changes! Having better time management skills can help you become more organized and productive. These tips can help you manage your time more efficiently:
- Keep track of important activities in a calendar or planner. With work, family, and social obligations, it can be tricky to remember all of your responsibilities throughout the week—writing them down and keeping a record of what you need to do can help! If paper planners aren’t for you, try downloading a planner app, such as the free app Schedule Planner, on your smart phone or tablet.
- Make a daily to-do list.Take the first 15 minutes of your day to write down all the things you need to get done, and then check them off as you complete them. Checking off completed tasks can also help you feel a sense of accomplishment.
- Get organized. Being surrounded by clutter can keep you from thinking clearly and working efficiently. A clean, organized space can help relieve stress and make you feel more relaxed.
- Schedule time for interruptions.There will always be things that come up at the last minute, so be realistic and expect the unexpected. Add some extra time into your schedule for these types of things.
- Take breaks. Allow yourself a few 10-minute breaks during the day to just breathe. Taking time to relax and refocus can help with getting your tasks completed.
- Take some “me” time. Learn when to say no to an unnecessary event or request. It is great to help others, but you have to help and take care of yourself first. Pencil in some “me” time to do one of your favorite activities!
- Reach out. Delegate when you can, and ask for help when you need it. Our personal expectations and pride lead us to try to do everything ourselves. But allowing others to contribute their ideas and input will help you meet deadlines and encourage collaboration!
- Use time wisely. Reduce time spent watching TV and mindlessly surfing the web. Instead, focus on activities that have a positive impact on you—for example, make a healthy dinner for yourself, get some exercise, or work on one of the items in your to-do list.
Remember, if you’re a Health Advocate member with access to the Wellness Coaching program, you can call your Wellness Coach for more time management tips!
Have a question for a Health Advocate? Email nhess@healthadvocate.com, and your question may be answered in an upcoming column!
