If you’re like most managers, your day is full of activities and interruptions. At times, your workload may be so overwhelming that it is difficult to decide where to start and what to do.
Here is some time management advice from the Mayo Clinic that can help you improve your work and, at the same time, reduce your stress level.
- Plan your day. This can help you accomplish more, plus feel more in control of things. Write a to-do list, putting the most important tasks at the top. Keep a schedule of daily activities to minimize conflicts and last-minute rushes.
- Prioritize your tasks. Time-consuming but relatively unimportant tasks can consume a lot of the work day. Prioritizing tasks will ensure that you spend your time and energy on those tasks that are the most important.
- Delegate. Review your to-do list and consider what tasks you can pass on to someone else.
- Take the time to do a quality job. Doing work right the first time may take more time, but rushing can lead to but errors, often resulting in time spent making corrections, which takes more time overall.
- Break down tasks. Break down large, time-consuming tasks into smaller tasks and then work on them for a few minutes at a time until you get them all done.
- Practice the 10-minute rule. Work on a task that you are not looking forward to dealing with for 10 minutes each day. Once you get started, you may find you can finish it.
- Evaluate your use of time. Keep a diary of everything you do for three days to determine how you are spending your time. Then, review it to see if some time can be used more wisely.
- Limit distractions. Block out time on your calendar for big projects. During that time, close your door and avoid interruptions like phone calls and email.
- Take a break when needed. Too much stress can derail any attempts at getting organized. Plus, over time, high levels of stress can lead to serious health problems. When you need a break, take one.
