Making the decision to develop a time management system be a great first step toward improving at work and elsewhere. However, some people struggling in the early phases of developing a time management system, and these struggles can lead to anxiety. Unfortunately, this anxiety can be debilitating, and many who experience it eventually give up. Here are a few tips for people who are facing time management obstacles.
– Start slow
One mistake some people make is to commit themselves to a rigorous time management schedule from the beginning. Especially rigorous systems are hard to manage for those who have not practiced time management skills, and early failures can cascade into severe frustration. Whether you are starting a time management system for the first time or have attempted systems in the past, give yourself some latitude.
– Keep notes
Another technique that can help is to keep a small diary of your progress. After your work for the day is finished, write down anything you noticed and make a special note of any obstacles you faced. By learning precisely what your obstacles are, you may be able to find ways to work around them. Obstacles are not always avoidable, but you may be able to develop means of mitigating them.
– Do not forget about rewards
While time management is about discipline, you should not be afraid to give yourself rewards on occasion. If you have completed a particular system successfully, go ahead and give yourself a well-earned treat. Motivation is often the primary obstacle people face, so do not be afraid to use techniques to give yourself a bit of extra motivation along the way.
– Make a commitment
Even if you have given up on developing a time management system in the past, do not be afraid to make a major commitment again. It is possible to develop a time management system regardless of past failures, so remain optimistic even if you feel that obstacles are insurmountable; they are not.
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