How to Manage Your Time More Effectively

Whether you’re a student or a business professional, procrastination is faced by anyone with a looming big project or a hectic schedule. It’s important to manage your time wisely when you’re working on a deadline, and these smart tips will help you to reduce stress and accomplish much more each day.

  1. Make a list. This tried-and-true method may seem obvious, but you would be surprised how much a to-do list can help with managing your time more effectively. To-do lists help forgetful people to stay on top of all of their daily tasks, and they force frequent procrastinators to hold themselves accountable for the items on the list.
  2. Prioritize. You may be tempted to complete smaller tasks first, but it’s actually much more effective to prioritize based on which jobs are more important or timelier. Complete pressing tasks first, and then move on to the rest of your work.
  3. Create a distraction-free zone. Whether you work in an office or in your home, be sure to clear your workspace of all clutter before beginning your daily tasks.
  4. Don’t overexert yourself. The most organized people are the ones who realize when they’re spreading themselves too thin. Turn down jobs or favors that you don’t feel like you have enough time to complete, as this may result in shoddy work (not to mention a whole lot of added stress).

How to Manage Your Time Effectively [University of Kent]
Manage Your Time More Effectively to Accomplish More Each Day [Right]
How Does One Manage Time More Effectively? [Forbes]
Managing Your Time and Study Environment [Bucks County Community College]

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/[Duncan]