By Michaela Davila, eHow Contributing Writer
We are each given twenty-four hours in a day to spend however we choose. For many of us, this will involve working and trying to be as productive as possible in accomplishing tasks. Having effective time management skills is critical to our success in productivity. If you have always struggled with managing your time, you no longer have to worry. By putting some simple tools into place, you will soon find yourself successfully and effectively managing your time.
Instructions
1. Step 1
Start by creating an environment that will promote better time management. Whether you work from home or in an office environment, there are some simple adjustments you can make to improve your productivity. A great amount of time can be sucked up in your quest to locate misplaced items. Eliminate this problem by organizing your work space. Give everything a proper home including writing utensils, calculators, staplers and any other tools you use. If you have files, label them and keep them in alphabetical order. Remove any unnecessary items from your work area to reduce clutter. Finally, make sure you put things back in their proper place when you are finished.
2. Step 2
Make a task list of the things you have to do. Creating a list will help you remember everything you need to get done and enable you to keep focused as you refer to it. Once you make the list, prioritize the things you need to accomplish in order of importance. Complete the most critical tasks first. If everything must be done in one day, complete the most difficult task first. This will help you avoid procrastination. Further, crossing out completed items on your task list will keep you motivated to keep going.
3. Step 3
Reduce distractions. When you are in the midst of your work day,do everything you can to remain focused. This may include shutting off your personal cell phone, avoiding social network sites while you are on the clock and keeping your desk free from snacks. Eating or snacking at your desk will distract you and waste time.
4. Step 4
Use motivators. Sometimes we do not work as quickly because we do not enjoy a particular task. The result is that we end up spending more time than necessary on the dreaded task. If you have a particularly trying task ahead of you, reward yourself for completing it. For instance, you could decide to go to lunch as soon as the task is completed or to take a break and call a loved one or even treat yourself with a piece of chocolate. You will be surprised at how quickly you work when you are motivated.
5. Step 5
Give yourself a break. Some people are under the impression that they will accomplish more if they work longer hours. This however, is not necessarily the case. If you are overtired from skipping sleep or fried from spending too many hours staring at your computer, you will not be more---but less---efficient. Make sure you get plenty of rest, and take a break, even if it consists of a brisk 15 minute walk when you are feeling fried. These things will stimulate you and make you more productive.
From ehow