Time management hacks to help you take back control of your calendar

Feeling overwhelmed by your schedule can be a common problem. If you find yourself constantly running out of time or feeling like you can’t keep up, it may be time to take a step back and evaluate your time management skills. Here are some time management hacks that can help you take back control of your calendar:

1. Prioritise your tasks

Start by making a priority list of your tasks. Determine which tasks are the most important and which ones can wait. Focus on completing the most important tasks first, then move on to the lesser ones. This will help you stay on track and ensure that you’re getting the most important things done.

2. Use time-blocking

Time-blocking is a method of scheduling that involves setting aside specific blocks of time for specific tasks. This can help you stay focused and make the most of your time. Start by blocking off time for your most important tasks, then schedule other tasks around them. Stick to your schedule as much as possible to maximise your productivity.

For instance, if you have a project that needs to be completed within the week, you can set aside a few hours every day to work on it. You can also add reminders to your calendar to ensure that you don’t skip these time blocks.

3. Take breaks

Taking breaks throughout the day can help you stay focused and energised. Schedule short breaks between tasks or set a timer to remind yourself to take a break every hour or so. Use this time to stretch, take a walk, or do something that relaxes you.

Taking breaks can also help prevent burnout and reduce stress. It’s important to note that taking a break doesn’t mean you’re wasting time. In fact, taking breaks can actually improve your productivity by helping you recharge.

4. Avoid multi-tasking

Multi-tasking can actually decrease productivity and increase stress. Instead of trying to do several things at once, focus on one task at a time. This will help you stay focused and ensure that you’re doing your best work.

For instance, if you’re working on a report, avoid checking your email or social media at the same time. Set aside time to check your email or social media separately, so you can give your full attention to the task at hand.

5. Set realistic goals

Setting unrealistic goals can lead to frustration and disappointment. Make sure that your goals are achievable and realistic. Break larger goals into smaller, more manageable tasks to make them easier to accomplish.

For instance, if your goal is to learn a new language, break it down into smaller tasks like learning a new word every day or listening to a podcast in that language for 10 minutes each day. This way, you’ll be able to track your progress and feel a sense of accomplishment as you complete each task.

By implementing these time management hacks, you can take back control of your calendar and make the most of your time. With a little bit of practice, you’ll be well on your way to mastering your schedule and achieving your goals.