Challenge yourself to complete more than you think you can, but don’t go overboard. If you have a massive research paper due on Friday, it’s probably not the time to add organizing your entire home and writing a novel to your list. Instead, try setting the goals of finishing your research paper, organizing your closet, and writing ten pages of your novel.
You may not follow your schedule exactly, as life can sometimes surprise you with how long a task will take. Regardless, a schedule is a great guideline for keeping you on track to reach your weekly goals.
For example, if you have a massive math assignment due tomorrow and some quick vocabulary worksheets due at the end of the week, start with the math homework.
For example, instead of answering emails and returning phone calls at the same time, answer all of your emails before you make your phone calls. Switching back and forth between tasks is more work for your brain and slows down the process.
For example, if you plan to write for 45 minutes, don’t answer your phone or respond to any emails during this time. Once the 45 minutes are up, you can check your email. Social media is a big distraction. Schedule social media time throughout the day and stay away from it unless it is during a scheduled time block.
Calling a friend Taking a walk Meditating or doing some stretching
Remember that delegating is a sign of strength and intelligence, not weakness. Everyone has to ask for help sometimes!
It’s best to track your time for a few days in a row to get an honest look at your schedule. Some days you may attend a birthday dinner or a doctor’s appointment, which aren’t everyday tasks and could throw off your schedule.
It’s completely okay to find that you didn’t get all of your tasks done! Remember that tomorrow is a new day. Keep pushing yourself to meet your goals!
Make sure your reward is something that you really enjoy. Your reward should never cause a setback or get you off track. For example, going to the movies or taking the rest of the day off after completing a 30-minute task may not be a good idea.
Learn to say “no. " If you cannot say no, be honest about your time constraints. For example, if someone asks you to get something done by the end of the day, you may say, “I’m a little overloaded right now, but I can have it to you by the end of tomorrow. ” Over-scheduling can also lead to stress. When you are stressed, you become less productive.
Don’t devote all of your downtime to planning and organizing. This could become stressful and do more harm than good. You still need some time to relax! If you have 10 minutes of downtime, start by devoting 2 or 3 minutes to getting organized.
You don’t have to eliminate all your personal touches, though! Add a few pictures to look at when you’re looking for a jolt of happiness, or consider a cute pen holder or desk plant to give your space some pizzazz.
