1. “How am I really spending my time at the office?”   

This question begins the process of bridging the gap that can exist between perception and reality. Are some things taking up too much time? It helps to decide what you need to be given a higher priority, and crucially, what could be taken out of your schedule to leave room for more productive tasks.   

2. Organisation, Organisation, Organisation

Create a daily schedule and be disciplined with it. While many are happy with a to-do list, finding the right planning tool, online or offline, is often helpful to stay on schedule. At the same time, another easy way to stay organised and keep your mind focused is to keep your workspace free of clutter. With a clean and open environment, your mind can be free and creative. A cautionary note, however – you shouldn’t procrastinate too much by spending time organising!

3. Keep distractions to a minimum   

Distractions are inevitable, and switching off the smartphone may be the option of last resort as a deadline approaches. If your office is a constant buzz of noises and commotion, try finding a space where you can have some quiet time or put on headphones and get into the zone to finish off that report which is a day overdue.   

4. Prioritise your tasks   

Ask yourself what needs to be done in the next day or week, and be sure to work in the time to complete it. Then, once you’ve finished your essential tasks, try and get a head start on your upcoming assignments.   

5. Avoid the urge to multi-task   

The idea of going back and forth between emails, for example, writing articles and designing a website, can seem like a great idea at the time. However, we suggest that you don’t do it! Multi-tasking is a skill some people have a natural gift for, but when you’re trying to manage your time, sticking to one task at a time is often the optimal plan. This way, you’ll be calmer and more focused, helping you get things done quicker.   

6. Incorporate breaks into your schedule   

Taking regular breaks takes discipline, which ultimately results in increased productivity. Breaks help us step away from the task and maintain a healthy perspective. We think it’s better to intentionally move the location for a complete change of focus to recharge.   

7. Learn to say no   

It’s easy to overwhelm yourself with too much work. Try delegating out specific tasks to other employees to help lighten your load.  Events have a way of coming in and throwing our plans entirely off track, but a few simple steps like these can dramatically impact time management.