Time Management – Setting Priorities
Do you ever feel overwhelmed by everything you have to do? Do you struggle with procrastination, trouble sleeping, or getting frustrated by too many things on your to-do list? You are not alone!
Setting Priorities
Since there are only 24 hours in a day, we each have to find ways to use our limited time as effectively as we can. Sometimes, it might not be realistic to get everything done. In that case, setting priorities can help you tackle the things that are most important first. The next time you start to feel time pressures building up, try this step-by-step approach:
- Make a list of everything that is “on your plate.”
- Is there anything you can simply decide not to do? If so, erase it. There might be some low- priority items that you can just let go or not add to your list in the first place. For example, you might decide that dusting the furniture or washing the car could wait until next week.
- Is there anything you can ask someone else to do? Maybe a family member can help with certain household chores or the kids can make their own beds. Can a co-worker help with part of a project? Ask for help when you need it and erase any items you are able to delegate.
- Now take a look at what’s left and decide which things are the highest priority. Start on one of them now. Keep your focus on that task so you can make the best use of your time.
- When the first item is done, go to the next high-priority item.
- Repeat the pattern until your available time for the day is finished.
- Use the remaining items (and anything new that has come up)to start your list for the next day; then, repeat steps 2-6.
What if everything feels like a high priority?
If you find it hard to put your tasks in priority order, here are some additional steps that might help:
- First, ask yourself, “why does this have to be done today?” Is the pressure coming from you, your boss, your spouse, kids, or friends? What happens if it isn’t done today?
- Let go for a moment. Remind yourself that you’re only human and your time is limited. You may need to let something go, and it’s your job to decide what. Take a deep breath or two to help you relax.
- Decide what you can realistically accomplish and what you need to let go until another day. If the pressure to do something today is coming from your expectations of yourself, decide what is most important to you. Otherwise, include others who are involved as you make the decision.
- Ask for more time as soon as you realize you need it. Your boss, or anyone else depending on you, will be most receptive if you speak up early. Explain what you can and can’t accomplish. Be open to suggestions and try to find a solution that will work for everyone.
- Learn to live with the fact that you might not be able to finish everything you’d like to. Sure, it can be frustrating to have unfinished tasks on your list, but you have two choices in that situation. You can either allow yourself to dwell on that frustration, or you can accept that your time is limited, feel good about what you did get done, and let the rest go until another day.
- Look to the future. Do you get caught in time crunches day after day and week after week? If so, you might need to be more realistic about what you take on. Do you need to say “no” more often? Do you need to ask for more help? Are you trying to be in two places at once? Sometimes, talking these issues over with a loved one or counselor might help.
In the meantime, try to plan well and allow time for things to “come up.” Assume each task may take longer than you think. Expect the unexpected and schedule loosely. Having extra time on your hands—and finishing a task with less stress in the allotted time—can be a pleasant surprise!
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*This information is intended for educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as medical or financial advice. Please consult your doctor for advice about changes that may affect your health.