Why is Time Management Important?
The main reason for why it is a good idea to manage your time is to make sure that you do not get overwhelmed. Even if you are very busy, it is still important to get enough sleep, eat well, exercise, spend time with your friends, and relax. Especially when class papers, exams, and other responsibilities start to accumulate it is important to stay calm and on top of everything. Manage your time in advance and you can reduce unnecessary stress.
In addition, organizing your time makes it easier to keep on track with your short-term tasks, as well as the long-term goals you want to accomplish. Research has also shown that time management is linked to better academic performance in college.
But work is not everything. It is just as important for your physical and mental health to find enough time to do what you really enjoy. Make sure to keep a reasonable balance between your daily obligations and your leisure time activities. After all, it is good to have some fun! If you want to know more about this topic, read a study that explains the relationship between academic stress, anxiety, time management, and leisure satisfaction.
What Can You Do?
- Keep a time log
For at least a week, carry a notebook and every 30 minutes jot down what you are doing (a short note). Review your log to evaluate (1) whether everything gets done, (2) how rushed you are to complete things, (3) whether all deadlines are met, (4) personal habits that keep you from achieving goals; and (5) your most and least productive time of day.
- Clarify your objectives, list everthing you plan to do, learn to schedule
List specific, realistic, and measurable objectives, both short- and long-term. Focus on large goals such as one year and lifetime goals, as well as the more immediated ones. Plan your time at least daily and weekly. Schedule the important activities. (A plan lists what to do and a schedule lists when to do your planned activities).
- Use a planning guide or "to-do" lists
Schedule key events, projects, deadlines. Make your work manageable. Divide large tasks into several smaller parts and complete one part at a time. Update the list every day by crossing off items that are finished and adding new items.
