How Time Management Works

In time management, the planning and execution of conscious control of time spent on specific activities are fundamental for increasing effectiveness, efficiency, and productivity. Time management refers to the effective management of time to allow the right time for the right activity. It sounds easy; however, time management is much harder in practice. It is truly a juggling act of several demands with the limited resource of time; all commitments, such as work, social life, family, and hobbies, can put a strain on your schedule.

The effective use of time allows you the option of managing activities based on your own schedule and convenience. Time management requires:

  • Effective organization
  • Establishing goals and objectives
  • Establishing deadlines
  • Assigning responsibilities
  • Ranking activities based on their importance
  • Investing the right amount of time in the right activity

There are various skills, tools, and techniques for managing time when accomplishing specific tasks, objectives, and goals in compliance with a due date. At first, the term 'time management' was only used for business or work activities with these demanding due dates; however, it then broadened to encompass personal activities as well. Time management is commonly necessary for any project management as it dictates the project completion time and extent.

Example of Time Management

Effective time management comes easier to certain individuals than to others, but everyone can develop routines to boost their time management skills. Without effective time management, your work and well-being suffer.

Let's say you have several tasks to complete in a day. Your first objective would be to rank these tasks by importance. Set a time limit for the completion of these important tasks, and eliminate non-priorities (tasks that do not provide value to the individual), distractions, and multitasking. Multitasking might seem like a quick way to complete tasks; however, it reduces productivity.

Finally, do the work. Avoid any procrastination, and use your time according to your plan. Doing so can help you focus on just the fundamental activities ahead of you and avoid time-consuming distractions.

Significance of Time Management

Understanding the discrepancy between urgent and important is fundamental in prioritizing your time and your workload, whether you are at work, home, or school. Understanding the difference helps you determine what is urgent and what can be left either until later or does not need to be done. Below are some of the important aspects of time management.

  • Produces better work on time: Time management helps you prioritize your tasks to ensure you have adequate time to complete every project. The quality of your work improves when you are not in a hurry to complete it ahead of a fast-approaching deadline. Effectively managing your time involves delegating every task on your list to specific blocks of time. If you properly schedule the time required to complete your work, you will be able to hit your deadlines every time.
  • Reduces stress: Good time management can help you set aside the time needed for your most essential tasks so you know exactly what you need to do and how much time you have available to complete everything. Prioritizing your tasks and giving yourself adequate time to accomplish them can help lower your stress levels.