Managing Time

Sometimes it just feels like there aren't enough hours in the day.

You set out to answer some e-mails in the morning and all of the sudden it's lunchtime and you haven't gotten to any of the items on your to-do list. It feels even more hectic for those of us who are juggling jobs, kids, homes, and caregiving for our loved ones. Is there any way to find more time?

First, you might think about what your time is worth. Try writing down your goals. What do you want to do with your time? What do you want to achieve? Take a few minutes to evaluate your schedule. Do you allow enough time to get things done? Are you overscheduled? Do you allow enough travel time to get from one place to another? See if you can identify any “time-wasters” in your day. Are you watching too much TV? Surfing the internet? Serving on committees that are unimportant to you? Talking on the phone longer than you want to?

Here are some time-saving tips to try:

• Set a timer for your internet and TV breaks. It's okay to give your brain a break but don't get sucked in and inadvertently lose more of your day than you intended.
• Combine trips together: schedule the trip to the grocery store on your way home from work or combine the grocery store trip with the department store and the library.
• Try to schedule a day to run these regular errands; not several.
• Try to shop early in the day if your schedule allows. There will be less people, more parking, and inventory will be less picked over.
• Schedule your time! It sounds simple, but many people don't. Utilize your phone or paper calendar. Keep one schedule and try not to over schedule yourself.
• Try to schedule doctor/dentist/car/etc. appointments early in the day before emergencies arise.
• Learn to say “no” and not feel guilty about it!

All in all, remember your goals and what is important to you to help you prioritize your time. Outsource what you can and make time for self-care when you can!

Vickie Dellaquila is Western Pennsylvania's first Certified Professional Organizer in Chronic Disorganization and owner of Organization Rules® Inc. Organization Rules provides compassionate organizing services for every stage of your life®. She is the author of Don't Toss My Memories in the Trash: A Step-by-Step Guide to Helping Seniors Downsize, Organize, and Move.