One commodity that we all have in common is time and it’s one thing that many of us struggle with. It doesn’t actually matter how hard we try, we can’t actually “save time” and we can’t even “buy time” (although that doesn’t stop people from trying”. What we can do however, is actually learn how to use our time more efficiently and actually avoid ‘losing time” Here are 5 tips. They’re not rocket science and I expect you will have come across all of them before. However, the question is are you following them? If not, why not? I have no doubt it would help. Here’s a reminder.

Have a to do list

Having a to do list helps you focus on what needs to be done. You may need to run a couple of lists. Don’t groan. You can have one list that runs to pages and pages (if you insist) – but then you should have a daily to do list. I have five things on my daily list – 3 that I want to complete and 2 which I will do if I find myself with more time. This way, I don’t get stressed by trying to manage a huge list on a daily basis.

Establish routines

If you’re going to manage your time more efficiently establishing some routines and making a habit of some tasks will help you become more organised and help you to avoid losing time. Even routines like always putting the clothes you’re going to wear the next day, the night before will prevent you from losing time. Look at things you currently do that you could easily change. It’s not always easy to establish a new routine but it’s worth persevering with it.

Break tasks into bite-sized chunks

You may be thinking ‘what’s bite-sized?’ Well it’s up to you, but it’s often hard to get motivated to even start on a huge task. Break things down into manageable sizes and you fill find yourself working more efficiently. It also makes it easier to pick things up if you're working and your're unexpectedly interrupted.

Be realistic about time

All too often we try and cram too much into the number of hours that we have available and actually we then tend to lose a lot of time as we try and juggle too many things. Equally though, don’t underestimate the time you have and leave yourself just wasting time. I’m not saying that you shouldn’t have down time. Down time is important for everyone - hopefully you understand the difference. The point is you want to make the most of your time.

Avoid little piles becoming big messes.

For some people keeping a tidy workspace and home is the most natural thing in the world, but if it isn’t you have to work hard on establishing new habits. One of these is putting things away when you've finished with them. If you’re the type of person who is always wasting time having to hunt for things which aren’t where you thought they were – do something about it.

Summary

So we’ve looked at five simple tips which can help you to stop losing time. We all accept that our time is a precious commodity and it’s worth making the effort to manage it more efficiently. However, these 5 tips are only a start. You can find more time management tips at my confidence coaching blog