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The original was posted on /r/getmotivated by /u/SocietyOfSideHustle on 2024-01-04 16:52:17+00:00.
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Like a lot of you, I struggled for years to actually master my time.
it almost seems impossible.
We often hear "master your time" and think it's not really possible.. I was right there with you, feeling like there were just not enough hours in the day.
Every day was a battle, trying to keep up with everything life threw my way. It was the same routine: attempting to tackle an endless list of tasks, failing to complete them, and then waking up to the same challenge the next day. This is what happens when time controls you.
However, when you really break it down it's not that complicated. It starts with a straightforward approach – dedicating specific blocks of time to certain tasks and really committing to them.
But you can't set those blocks of time and half ass it.
You have to be intentional & in the moment and get rid of all distractions for these blocks of time due to the fact that the more focused you are during them, the more efficient you will get at the skills needed to move forward. The more efficient you get, the more you'll feel like you're actually able to control your time instead of your time controlling you.
Here's some tips when it comes to time blocking:
Set your schedule the night before. If you don't, you already lost. Setting your schedule the night before helps because the current day is still fresh on your mind and building on the day before is important.
Do the most important/hardest tasks in the morning. This is called "eating the frog". The idea is that by completing this task early, you get it out of the way, and it sets a productive tone for the rest of your day.
Multitasking is a myth. You could never truly focus on multiple tasks simultaneously with full efficiency. What we often perceive as multitasking is actually 'task-switching', where our brain rapidly shifts focus from one task to another. This constant switching can lead to decreased productivity and increased mental fatigue.
End your day with a review: This is probably the most important aspect. You should do this right before you set your schedule for the next day. I say it's the most important aspect due to the fact that you get more efficient by taking a look at your day and breaking down what you could do better. IF you're consistent with your daily reviews, your ability to control your time will get better and better.
Use a bullet journal: When you use digital planners, it can be harder to remember tasks because writing things down by hand enhances your ability to retain information.