Managing time can be challenging, especially if you struggle with procrastination; as someone who constantly puts things off until the last minute, writing this piece on time management was a personal test. Even as I write this, I have many tasks that I should have completed during the week but couldn't find the motivation. However, after spending a considerable amount of time reflecting on this topic, I have come up with some insights that may be helpful for others who struggle with time management.
As children, our concept of time revolved around fulfilling basic needs such as food, sleep, and play. However, as we mature and reach middle school or college, we face various tasks across multiple subjects. The sheer volume of work can be daunting, making it challenging to meet deadlines. So, we often find ourselves racing against the clock, hastily completing assignments like a fast-food employee assembling a burger.
Over time I have learned that things do get better. In today's world, technology can provide constant reminders of the task at hand, and there are fancy apps to help you create a to-do list. It is most effective to write down everything that needs to be done and then assign priorities over a week. However, what technology cannot do is help you understand the motivation behind your work.
I have observed my time management skills and identified areas for improvement.
- To get things done, I either love what I am doing or hate it enough to finish it quickly. The in-between state is procrastination. The reason behind the task must be significant enough to motivate you to get off the couch, sit at the desk, and start working on the assignment, if not complete it.
- I make the most of my small pockets of time. While waiting for the bus, I exercise by standing on my toes, which is good for my health. During my commute, I either read a book or write. Some days, I prefer to enjoy the view and listen to my favorite music while I go to my destination.
- I enjoy the peaceful and quiet mornings when the world is just starting to awaken and before the hustle and bustle of daily responsibilities take over. I recommend identifying a time in your day that you cherish the most and eliminating any potential distractions during that period. Keeping your phone in a separate room can be worth considering to prevent procrastination and slothfulness, which frequently go together.
- Timing yourself when performing a task that you don't like, such as putting clothes in the washing machine, can be eye-opening. It might surprise you that loading the washing machine only takes about three minutes; yet, you have procrastinated for two days. It's worth considering that we often spend more time worrying about what needs to be done than actually doing it.
- Reward yourself by binge-watching a series or scrolling through Instagram only after completing an important task.
- Remember to be kind to yourself, as everyone has their struggles. Take a deep breath and trust that everything will work out.
- For those who want a professional way of managing time, click on the link below for The Eisenhower Matrix.
Managing your time is like playing Jenga. One wrong move can cause everything to come
crashing down. But you can become a time management ninja with patience, discipline, and
a willingness to learn.
