One thing I often hear people say they need is Time Management skills. Since we are all very busy especially if we have young children and are working the idea of managing our time effectively seems impossible and stressful. I am here to help you! Are you a procrastinator? There is help for you and it’s not as hard as you think.
As an Introvert, I am a born planner but I, like so many of you used to exist in a chaotic bubble. I even think when I was younger I thrived on it. What it does is stress you out and you wind up getting nothing done at all and it’s completely unnecessary.
Before I even get to the tips you have to get your head in the game. Realize first that time is currency. You have to decide to not just try Time Management but make a commitment. It is a lifestyle change and for many a difficult prospect because discipline is essential.
Incorporate scheduling into everything you do. Before you say you can’t do this, remember everyone else is! Schools and Jobs have schedules. It makes life simpler to know when you are doing things and the time frame involved. I schedule everything, even naps. I am always careful to leave openings with enough time should life interfere in some way. Be sure to sign up for the free Monthly Planner!
I have read lots about productivity because it is the key ingredient to being successful in whatever you do. When I read about “3 Goals A Day” it changed my life. At first, I was nodding my head like you probably are right now. Maybe you’re thinking you have a million things to do not just 3.
We all have tons heaped on our plates, that’s for sure but do you find that you aren’t getting much done? This is because it sends our brains into overload. The 3 goals a day philosophy is this, You give yourself 3 things a day you absolutely must achieve. You write them down and check them off when you have finished them. Some days you won’t achieve more than those three things and other times you’ll have time to achieve more without beating yourself up for failure. This method has always helped me to stay focused. I have included a free download for a 3 Goals A day Checklist.
I freely admit I might go overboard on the lists. Let’s just say I make a list for everything. Making lists are a great way to keep yourself on track. I am Old School in that paper lists work best for me. Honestly, I have tried the apps but for me, I forget about them and where my phone is half the time. I like a paper list because the act of writing it out myself plants the seeds in my brain. Not only that, having it stare up at me is the best reminder I can imagine. You have to do what’s right for you of course.
Finally, the key to being successfully organized and motivated is knowing when not to be. Take breaks where you do nothing. Have a free, unscheduled day every week because we all need balance in our lives!