Have trouble managing your time?  Does it always feel like you are running in circles?

Quick Tips

Apply these 4 quick time management tips to start getting your time under control.

Set a goal

Grab a piece of paper and write down one goal you have for yourself regarding your time.   Don’t over think the goal, but do make it specific enough to know when you have achieved it.  An example is, “Arrive at all of my meetings prepared and 5 minutes early”.  The more specific the better!

To do list

It can be very tempting to jump into your work every day and start fighting fires.  Instead, take 5 minutes at the beginning of your day to write a to do list.  This will help you stay focused on what is important today and feel less chaos.

Use 2 timers

Use 2 timers to help yourself get to meetings and appointments on time.  Set one to signal when you need to start preparing  to leave your office/house.  Next, set the second one to sound when you need to leave the house or your office.  This transition time can be really helpful in getting places on time.

Image: Graeme Weatherston / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Limit interruptions

Being interrupted by co-workers, friends or  family members can make it difficult, or even impossible, to get work done.  Counteract this by  working to limit your interruptions.  You can put a sign outside your cubicle, turn off your phone (okay, at least turn the ringer to silent!) and close your email program to limit those troublesome interruptions.

That’s it – I promised they would be quick!  Give them a try and let me know how it goes!