I don’t have time, I’m running out of time, we’ll do it when we have time– these are certainly phrases you hear regularly. The reality is that we all have 24 hours in the day, don’t we? We look at those around us, some of whom seem to have more time than others. We try the same things they do, but the result is always the same: the lack of time is always there! What can we do about it?
First, we need to focus on the factors in our daily lives that are under our control and that are prone to being time wasters. Here are a few ways of thinking about your cell phone.
- How much time do you spend on your cell phone doing things that aren’t work-related or urgent? (Be honest!)
- Do you need to activate notifications for all your applications?
- Do you absolutely have to reply to a message within a minute?
Questions to ask yourself to help you maximize your time:
- Do you need to be available all the time? You have every right to be unavailable! But to avoid conversations that turn into off-topic discussions, you can say to your interlocutor: I’ve got 10 minutes, let’s talk about it, I’ll be available at 3 p.m., that’ll be a better time. Simply saying “yes, I have the time” can suggest an openness to lots of time. What’s more, it’s not always ideal to be always available… to think! Although we know the current reality with the workforce, it’s important to question whether things can be delegated, or whether there’s scope for developing the autonomy of one’s peers.
- Do you have any tasks that can be done in 2 or 5 minutes? If so, do them quickly and challenge yourself to do them in less time next time. Also try to do a task in slightly less time than usual. Save your energy for tasks that require more time and concentration.
- Make yourself a To-Do list of important things to do, or use a weekly planning tool. Our brains are hard at work every day, and this will help you at the end of the day to take stock, and make changes so that your next day is more optimal.
- Can I shorten the deadline for a task? For example, you have 30 days to make a payment or achieve a goal. Can I try to do it in 10 or 20 days?
- If I feel angry or disappointed in my daily life, ask yourself: do I have control over the situation that has arisen? If not, try to put your thoughts and focus on the things you do have control over.
- Reward yourself! If stretching your legs outside for 5 minutes or getting a cup of coffee puts a smile on your face, well, do it! Beyond the hat of employee, manager, parent, etc., you deserve a little pleasure, for you!
How do you put it all into practice and maintain consistency? Through the power of small steps! Every little action counts to maximize your time in a day. Can’t see the results? Take the time to write down each small victory and you’ll see that you’re managing your time better and better. Be gentle with yourself. Don’t hesitate to call in the professionals if you feel the need. However, don’t forget to allow yourself a little time for the things that make you feel good, as this increases your happiness and energy!
Interesting reading on time management