I like planning. It gives me joy to tick tasks off a list and to list down my to-do list on a fresh page. However, I do know from experience that there are times when things can get crazy and time management can be elusive. Thus, we need to establish a system in order to get us through.
Let me teach you how to manage your time, all the time, whether your schedule is lean or your priorities seem to never end.
I am on my third day of Susie Moore’s Side Hustle Prep School, which I have learned from her guesting at Melyssa Griffin’s Pursuit with Purpose podcast. I am not yet considering a side hustle at the moment, but it helps to take this short course because I want to know what skills I already have. My innate skills can help me develop my career trajectory and improve myself. While I have already learned what my skills are, and I have also uncovered the ONLY five things I will need to build my career. I do recognize though that these skills and career goals will not matter if I do not have the time for my career goals. Thus, I recognize that time management is important, whether you plan to excel at work, or setup that side hustle.
- Don’t prioritize your schedule. Schedule your priorities. There are two kinds of tasks: urgent tasks, which pertains to work tasks, such as replying to emails and daily account management; meanwhile, important tasks are meaningful tasks, such as self-care and passion project deliverables. The key is to schedule the important tasks before responding to the urgent ones. This is to ensure that you are taking care of yourself and you are able to feed your soul, which will translate to better output in your urgent tasks. For example, I make sure that I am able to workout, read, and write on my blog. That way, I am already happy and fulfilled, and it results to a clearer mind at work. Of course, it is essential that I am 100% focused when I am at work, so the important tasks are pretty much routine to me.
- Start saying no. There is nothing more empowering than turning down things which do not fit in your schedule or scheme of things. Ask yourself, “do I really want to do this?”. The key is to strive for the great!
- Batch your schedule. I am a firm believer in accomplishing tasks by batches. That way, I do not overlook anything. For example, I reply to emails at the same time everyday, such as at the start of my shift and after lunch. I blog first thing in the morning. Create a routine that works for your job and passion project. This reduces mental-switching costs and makes you more efficient.
- Use downtime wisely. Instead of scrolling aimlessly through social media during your free time, accomplish some tasks which will make your work or passion project more manageable. For example, I outline my blog posts and research on possible topics in between tasks. I also write blog entries on the go! Make time work for you.
- Develop a task-oriented mindset. Move from time-based planning to completion-based planning today. That way, you shift your focus from how long you will work to what you will actually accomplish. This will give your work purpose and knowing your why makes each task easier and lighter. You will also be inspired to complete tasks just by knowing your work’s purpose.
- Get familiar with your peak hours. By optimizing your schedule, you get to accomplish more in less time. For example, I accomplish daily account management tasks before lunch so I finish those in the morning. I respond to emails well at the start of my shift. As for my blog, I write well right after waking up. This system works well for me. Go find your own routine and it will make your tasks more feasible.
- Identify your blocks (and avoid them like the plague!). You have to realize that your actions will have a domino-effect. So, remember to avoid productivity suckers during your hustle time. You can always check your social media when you’re done with that email or blog entry.
- Cut down on TV. I don’t watch TV. Instead, I read and write. Find a hobby aside from watching TV and I assure you, your life will be more fulfilling.
I am a firm believer that passion projects restore dignity and self-respect. As I have previously shared, my blog has become my job. It has given me a sense of purpose and a reason to keep going. It has also become a dress rehearsal to being my own boss. This process has taught me so much about managing my time and identifying my peak hours. Now that I am planning to return to the corporate world, I am confident that my passion project will help me become a better follower and colleague. After all, action begins with the self. I already know how to get things done, so I hope you will also find this system helpful and begin applying these steps to your life!
***Comments are welcome at speakoutsam@gmail.com***