The concept of time management is pretty intuitive, right? It’s the practice of working smartly and efficiently so that you can maximize your time. There are a lot of things that can be done to maximize time, though. Of course, there are the classics: Stay organized, plan things out using your calendar, write to-do lists. But what about those out-of-the-box ideas for time management? If you’re looking for some well-hidden tricks on effectively managing your time, here are seven counterintuitive time management tips for you.
- Schedule Breaks Throughout your Day
When you have a lot on your plate, all you want to do is work and get it all done. It’s important to work efficiently, though, not just excessively. Your brain only stays focused for 90 minutes at a time, max. Take a break every hour and a half to recharge.
- Use Both Sides of the Brain
We tend to get stuck using only one side of the brain. If you’re in a creative career, you’re constantly using the right side of the brain. On the flip side, math and science lovers are using the left side of the brain more. Switch it up to keep your thinking sharp! It’ll boost your overall thinking process, which helps you work more efficiently over time. Something as simple as doodling while engaging in logical, left-brain work will make you more resourceful.
- Exercise
You’re probably thinking, “That will take up more of my time!” Yes and no. Exercise is good for your physical and mental health, so it’s a smart investment of your time. It relieves stress and gives you an outlet outside of work.
- Let Your Body Rest
Lots of people allow sleep to take the back burner to work, but the only thing that does is slow you down. If you’re not getting your much-needed eight hours of sleep every night, you’ll perform slower at work the next day. That doesn’t sound productive, does it?
- Give Yourself Time to Relax
Relaxing is different from taking work breaks. A work break is short, like spending a few minutes on your phone or grabbing a quick snack. Relaxation time is different – it means allowing yourself to be mindful of the present moment. Meditation and yoga are both great ways to take time to relax. It doesn’t have to be a major time-suck. Even 10 minutes of meditation every morning will go a long way toward improving your disposition and work ethic!
- Avoid Interruptions (Especially Your Phone)
When everything is digitized, and communication is instant, it’s easy to get caught up in the vortex of quick replies. Try to refrain from phone interruptions, like phone calls, texts, and emails, when you’re working on something important. It will distract you and slow you down.
- Find Happiness Every Day
Life is about the journey, not the destination. Don’t take things so seriously that you forget how to have fun and enjoy where you are. Enjoy today, and be excited for tomorrow.