Effective Time Management Tips

Effective Time Management Tips

By: Emily Larrabee

There are times in my college career where I felt so on top of things. Nothing could distract me from the goals I had. Then there are those times in my college career where I have felt like there is not enough time in the day to even finish half the goals I set for myself. I looked back and thought, “Why is there a difference in the way I have been handling things? I haven’t changed a thing”. Wrong. I was not using my time efficiently. Having effective time management abilities is a skill to be admired. If you do not have good time management skills, here are some tips to help you get on the right track!

1.    Plan it out!

Sounds obvious, but you REALLY need to invest your money into a nice planner to help you organize your daily activities. Without it, you may forget about a huge project or not go to your important meeting with your boss. Even just putting it into your phone would be helpful since you look at it everyday.

2.    Get up at the same time everyday.

I know, it is so difficult somedays to get up early. If you can get up around 8 every morning, you would be surprised how much you will get done. On the weekends, you can sleep as much as you want, but during the week, make sure you get up at a consistent time. First, it is healthier for your body and second, it helps you manage your time more efficiently.

3.     Daily to-do lists

Before you begin your day, make sure you create a to-do list of the things you want and need to get done for the day. Make sure you list them according to the level of importance. If you want to finish a paper that is due tomorrow, you may want to list that first so you can finish it in time to proofread it. 

4.     Shut off your phone

This one is tough, even for me. I know that if I shut my phone off for at least an hour a day, that I would get so much more accomplished then I do now. Now, I make sure I shut it off (or at least don't look at it) for at least an hour a day. Make sure you shut your phone off or put it on do not disturb. This will help you get your work done without any distractions. If you can’t concentrate on one topic, your work will be mediocre and your professor or boss will not be pleased. Try it for an hour a day, see how much you accomplish.