When you’re enrolled in online school or working at your job (or maybe both), one of the key tenets to good time management is being organized.
Typically this means creating a to-do list. But, if you’re like most people your ongoing to-do list can get to be multiple pages (or screens) long. Sometimes it can be long enough that you simply throw in the towel and decide to catch up on you DVR full of The Bachelorette instead. But a tiny twist to your approach could help. Making your list is step one, but learning how to prioritize that list is just as important. Try out some of the ideas below and you’ll be surprised how much you get done in one day.
Typically this means creating a to-do list. But, if you’re like most people your ongoing to-do list can get to be multiple pages (or screens) long. Sometimes it can be long enough that you simply throw in the towel and decide to catch up on you DVR full of The Bachelorette instead. But a tiny twist to your approach could help. Making your list is step one, but learning how to prioritize that list is just as important. Try out some of the ideas below and you’ll be surprised how much you get done in one day.
Be honest Understanding the difference between what you think is important and what is truly important is, well, important. We’d all like to think we’re Superwoman (or man) but there is only so much you can truly get done in one day. Figure out what absolutely has to get done that day and make sure it’s at the top of your list.
Tackle the tough first If everything on your list is equally important then work at the most difficult, least enjoyable task first. This “eat the frog” approach encourages you to do the toughest task first because then the rest of your projects for the day will seem easier.
Start with speed and ease Alternatively, you can look for the items on your list that will take five minutes or less (an important note here: be sure to write down everything, no matter how brainless. Sometimes the most obvious tasks are the most important). By starting with these easily accomplished items you can build the momentum and energy needed to complete other pieces of your list.
Email time limit We all love email. It’s a quick and easy way to communicate, but it can be a real black hole for productivity – especially at work. Since we’re all connected 24/7, it can seem like you have to respond to every email immediately when it lands in your inbox. But, you’ll be able to stay more focused on your to-do list and be more productive if you set specific times of day to check and respond to emails. By making email less of a priority, you’ll be able to concentrate on what really matters. One of the biggest excuses for not going back to school is lack of time. But, maybe by putting in to practice the tips above, you’ll find room in your schedule to finally take the next step in your career by earning a degree.
If you are interested in finding out how online school makes it easier to earn a degree while balancing a job and family responsibilities, call 1.888.447.3528 to speak with a Bryant & Stratton College Online admissions representative.
