10 Ways to Organize your Time

Clear up your schedule and prioritize. In today’s hectic world, organizing your time is more important than ever. Work, children’s activities and the ever-growing host of social networks all eat up our time.

1. Set a schedule

Schedules are a great way to organize your time. While schedules may seem restrictive to some, routine ensures that tasks can be broken up into more manageable pieces. For instance, make it a priority to clean for thirty minutes to an hour every day, rather than an entire day a week.

2. Use a device or planner

A planner is an excellent way to stay on top of your schedule. Today’s smart phones all come with calendars. Carrying your schedule with you allows for easy updates and changes. It also helps you to avoid the awkward cancelation of plans once a conflict is found. If you are using an electronic device, set alarms to remind you to keep on schedule.

3. Don’t over-commit

In a world full of possibilities, it can be difficult to restrain yourself from committing to too much. If you have a full plate already you should not ask, “What will this do for me?” rather, “What do I have to give up to do this?” Guilt is often a motivator that makes us over commit. Remember: the more people you try to make happy, the less happy they all will be.

4. Ask for help

Many of us do tasks that we believe only we can do properly. Maybe you feel you do the best laundry. Perhaps no one else in the house can vacuum to your abilities. Prioritize what tasks really need your attention, and then negotiate help from other family members. They are often happy to help if given the control and appreciation.

5. Cooperate

Is anyone else you know doing the same task as you? Try cooperating with friends and family with tasks. If you and a friend visit the same store for a particular product, trade off who visits the store for both of you.

6. Keep it close to home

Use the closest amenities to your home. Remember that even paying a little more at a grocery store that is closer to your home will save you time and gas money. Have your children attend a school within walking distance from your home if possible to eliminate rides and missed buses. 

7. Have a plan when shopping

The worst scenario for a person with little time is shopping without a plan. Lists are useful, as it keeps your attention focused on a goal, rather than browsing through the newest goods. The list also provides an end point for the shopping experience. Plan your route to visit multiple stores in advance so that by the time you reach the end of the list you are on your way home.

8. Turn off the T.V.

The television is a very distracting fixture in most homes. The story lines, music and imagery are all created specifically to catch and keep your attention. If you do not like quiet in the house try playing music instead. Focus the music to match the activity.

9. Use electronic billing and banking

This is a no brainer option. Have your bills come directly to the place you pay them. Schedule time accordingly based on the pay schedule of your bills.

10. Remember to include down time

Time to relax is the most important part of your schedule. Giving your mind time to wind down allows you to work more efficiently later. More importantly it allows for needed social time with others.

Organizing your time is a great way to ensure that everything gets done. Be sure to remember to include down time in your plan. What is the point of doing all of your tasks, if you do not give yourself any time to enjoy it? Consider the other people that need you. Make sure you have enough time to be social with those you love.