Where Does the Time Go?

Time Management is one of the most effective coping methods to reduce situational stress. The daily hassles of life can become overwhelming if not managed and scheduled with intention. There will never be a time where you can control every hour of your day. Surprises, crises, and tragedies will occur. When you have strong time management skills and the little things are controlled, you have the energy to address life’s bigger situations.

3 Effective Time Management Steps

There are 3 steps you must go through to start having effective time management.

The first step is to know where your day goes. This step doesn’t take much effort, it does take commitment and consistency. It is a must, non-negotiable step that will be the basis for the other steps and how you are going to reduce your situational stress.

Using a pen and paper method, the calendar program on your phone, or another tool, track the following information for a minimum of 3 days. Ideally, 5-7 days works best as it allows you to see trends in your schedule and behaviors.
Time
Activity
Duration
Value of Activity (low, medium, high)

After you’re done gathering the information, answer the following questions:
– What trends do you see?
– What percentage of the time did you spend on low-value activities? Medium? High?
– How much time did you spend at work? With family? Having fun? Watching TV?
– What were some of the time bandits- those things that derailed you and took time?
– Have you learned about the way you spend your time?
– Are you willing to change to have effective time management?

TIPS:

1. You can take this activity further by dividing your calendar into work and home. Make a difference in both areas of your life.
2. Track your day in 10-minute intervals for the greatest impact.
3. Add up the hours and minutes spent in repeated activities to see how much of your day/week is spent on them. Now ask and answer, “Is this worth it?”

Now that you have an understanding of where your time goes, categorize your activities in the next step, Time Well Spent.

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