Are you spiralling at work? Here are 9 tips for better time management

Are you spiralling at work? Here are 9 tips for better time management

Struggling to keep up with work? Here are helpful tips to assist with better time management...

Business partners working on digital tablet
Business partners working on digital tablet/ iStock

In a world where deadlines are looming and to-do lists seem endless, here are nine practical time management techniques that don't require complex strategies. 

READ: The top five most loved beverages by men in South Africa

If you want to craft a well-organised schedule, here are some straightforward strategies:

1. Quick Wins

If a task takes less than two minutes, tackle it immediately. Think of it as tying your shoelaces - loop, loop, done! Your inbox will thank you.

2. Countdown to Action

When you take on a task, mentally count down from 5-4-3-2-1. Act immediately before procrastination sets in. Avoid waiting for excuses to delay action.

3. Prioritise Wisely

Prioritise effectively by creating a 'Do Not Do' list. Identify non-essential tasks for delegation and focus on what truly matters.

4. One Task at a Time

Instead of juggling multiple tasks, concentrate on one task at a time. Simplicity beats chaos.

5. Time Blocks

Set a 25-minute timer. Focus on your task. Take a five-minute break - stretch, sip tea, or chat. Consistently follow this routine and establish the habit.

6. 1-3-5 Rule

The 1-3-5 rule is all about completing three categories of tasks. The 1-3-5 rule categories and task split-ups are as follows: one major task, three medium tasks, and five minor tasks. 

With this time management technique, the goal is to accomplish the tasks on your 1-3-5 list in a single day — with no more or fewer tasks added to your workload unless you’ve already finished your nine daily tasks.

7. 80/20 Focus

Imagine you have a big pile of tasks. The Pareto Principle says that roughly 80% of the results come from just 20% of the work. So, focus on the most important 20% to get the best results.

8. Morning Momentum

The 'Eat the Frog' technique involves confronting and completing your most difficult or important task early in the morning, rather than procrastinating. By prioritising and taking action on this task, you can increase productivity, reduce stress, and maintain momentum in your work

9. Tiny Steps, Big Progress

Chop tasks into pixie-sized bits. Each spark of effort adds up.

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