Time Management

Definition

Time is defined as that part of existence, which is measured in seconds, minutes, hours, days, weeks, months, and years. It can be a particular period or duration for which things happen. Time is a precious resource, which is not non-renewable. It controls everything we do including living itself. There fore there is need to control our activities so as to fit each in a given timeframe and to make the best of time available to us.

Work schedule

This is a temporary organized plan for matters to be attended to. Planning for time is essential for any individual. If one plans well he or she will improve their productivity. Planning means bridging the gap between what one is and what he/she wants to be in future. In planning one has to evaluate the work before hand and see whether it can be accomplished within the available time and resources.

It is advisable to make a daily work schedule or a timetable. Record it inform of a diary and if possible try to live according to its prescription. Helpful tips include:

The work schedule should not be very rigid, change can be effected to suit ones needs
A daily work schedule need not be the same for different people even if they are involved in the same task
One should try to stick to the time allocated on his/her work schedule

Time Management Chart Include:

Leisure time
Working time
Exercise and games
Helping the needy
Meals time
Cleaning time
Rest

Importance of managing time

Focus on priorities
Sense of direction
Attain goals Reduce/avoid stress
Satisfy others/clients
Create and have time for every thing

Time wasters

Time waster is any controllable activity that hinders or delays your efforts to accomplish the job or task

These include:

Procrastination
Interruptions by people without appointment
Poor or lack of delegation
Talking too long on telephone
Lack of priorities
Day dreaming
Excessive playing
Indecisiveness
Disorganization
Uncontrolled media influence
Reading junk literature
Quarrying and fighting

Effective Management of time

Avoid working on several small projects at the same time Finish one project before starting another

Prioritize your projects and work on the most important ones first Self-imposed deadlines for all projects and meet them Concentrate on the results

Values Associated with Time Management

Honesty
Simplicity
Responsibility

Life skills associated with time management

Assertiveness
Self awareness
Self-esteem
Communication decision-making