Top 5 mistakes in time management that prevent us all to keep up

We draw up a list of tasks and trying to stay on schedule no matter what. But no matter how we try, all will still be new and urgent tasks. The list is getting longer, and we can not escape the feeling that the time just slips out of the hands. So let's see what mistakes we often commit, and how to correctly dispose of his time.

1. Not prioritize

Of course, the list of tasks - an effective way to bring order to their thoughts about what needs to be done. But if you do not set priorities, the most important thing may simply drop out of sight. You have to understand the direction, the purpose of the activity, rather than jumping from one job to another. Incorrect prioritization can tell a lot about the current working environment.

Many working in a team, feel uncomfortable when superiors or colleagues asking them to do something: They lay their current jobs do not prioritize, and then do not have time for their schedule. Therefore, if you are engaged in the planning of your day, week or month, ask yourself what the problem is for you the most important in this period.

Often it turns out that the work on the important task occupies all thoughts and gradually flows into procrastination. Because usually it requires serious mental effort and total focus. Where tempting all day engaged in small five-minute chores, than one big task that is given is not easy, though, and as a result brings a greater return.

2. Bite off more than one can chew

Reassessment of its capabilities - known sin in time management. When you think that the task will take on the strength of a couple of minutes, and it eats up at least half an hour. To avoid this situation, before you start somewhere write down how much time you are going to spend on it.

If the task will take 25-30 minutes, be sure to place it on the schedule.

Another piece of advice: think twice, how much time can actually take the job.

If you are sure that the work is 30 minutes, pull on it in its hour schedule for the safety net. Otherwise, you may be one of those accidents workaholicsThey work all night.

At the beginning of the day take a 10-minute check of his schedule. Fact: 10 minutes of planning will save you in the morning hours during the working day. But do not load your calendar as a whole, do not forget to leave free time for new and / or unexpected problems.

3. digress

Distracted attention - the main cause of procrastination. And most of the work we divert social networking and email. To avoid this, be sure to turn off the notifications for incoming when you are trying to focus on the nuances of the job, or you can specify an interval for notifications, such as every three hours. It will not be distracted by emails every two minutes.

There is another great way to: allocate a special time in your schedule, you'll spend on working with members. constantly check mail - then give it enough attention: you quickly view the letter and as quickly sends a response, often inaccurate and misspellings. Apologize and re-explain what you actually had in mind - an unjustified waste of time, which could have been avoided.

Clutter can also be distracting. Folders with papers scattered on the table, the chaos in stationery, notes, which can not be found in this mess... Take a point to get out on the table every time at the end of the week and ruthlessly dispose of papers that you do not come in handy and are unlikely to be needed.

4. We think that the time spent counting - it's too much

There are two ways to free up time to ignore the new task or rationalize its use. But until you begin to monitor how much time is spent on a particular activity, you do not know which way is right for you.

A week or two, try to pinpoint the time you spend on performing work assignments. This will help to see and analyze how you spend the time and in the future - to avoid their own mistakes.

You are constantly interrupted by a phone call or knock at the door? You spend too much time on the web or check your email too often? See how long it takes you to these unproductive business, and strategize - ignore them, or reduce the amount.

5. We believe in multitasking

time management experts assert in one voice: no such thing as multitasking, does not exist. What is usually designated by the term "multitasking" actually is a throwing from one task to another and nothing good about it.

For best results, you need to focus on one task, to put the timer and work at the designated time, just above it.

Say to yourself like a mantra: "Right now I have this task completed yet" - and you will not jump from one task to another.