It’s pretty safe to say that we all wish there were more hours in the day to get done all the things we need to accomplish. Is it possible to make more time? Yes, if you identify the things that are causing procrastination. Here are four ways to maximize your time so that you can achieve more:
Set clear goals and prioritize.
We all need motivation. Fuzzy goals won’t get the job done. So establish a clear-cut plan that you’re excited about accomplishing. The more you want it, the more motivating it will be. With a goal in mind, you have the ability to break it up into achievable tasks that will begin to get you there.
Studies have shown that you’re much more likely to finish a task if you write it down on a to-do list. This will help you organize the work that needs to be accomplished in the day and help you create a timeline to get things done on time.
Write down your three or four “important and urgent” tasks that must be addressed today. As you complete each one, check it off your list. This will provide you with a sense of accomplishment and can motivate you to tackle less essential items.
Create a routine and stick to it.
You can manage your time more effectively by setting up a routine and sticking to it. After a while, this routine will become a habit.
Ask yourself: How many minutes am I productive each week? If you don’t know, try creating a time tracker where you clock in and out of your various tasks or projects to see what you’re spending your most valuable asset on – and where it’s being wasted.
Be accountable.
A lack of accountability makes it easy to procrastinate, which makes it hard to have the motivation necessary to carve out time in your schedule, even for projects which you care deeply about. The solution is simple: you need someone or something to keep you accountable.
Banish bad habits and eliminate distractions.
We’re not saying that you need to be laser-focused all of the time. Taking a break can actually be a good thing! But if you evaluate what you’re getting done in a day (or not getting done), you may be able to identify several ways in which you could easily change your schedule to make more time.
It may take a massive exercise in will power, but shut the door and turn off your phone to maximize your time. Instead of being “always on,” plan a break in the day to catch up on email and call people back, etc.
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