#do tasks

  People who want to control their life most often end up being controlled by their time. Time management--a concept that has been around for decades--is something that anyone can master if they’ll follow this step-by-step guide on how to properly manage and schedule time.

  1. Keep yourself organized. There are a lot of time saving tools that you can use (and some can even be downloaded to your device) like to-do lists, appointment reminders, file folders, time tracking software, etc. You can use tools like Evernote (free and can be installed on ANY device) for your to-do list, NotifyMe for your appointment reminders and GetMyTime to track your time.

  For some recommended productivity tools, click here.

It is also wise to keep your desk properly organized and clutter-free. File all paper works as soon as they come in and send out those that needs to be filed out. Don't touch paper more than once.

  2. Forecast and plan ahead. Before accepting any task, imagine how long will it take to finish them. You might have current and more urgent tasks to finish. When working with multiple tasks, see if there are two or three tasks that can be combined. This way, you get more things done in less time. However, if you're working on a big project, see if it can be divided into smaller tasks that can fit perfectly on your schedule.

  3. Prioritize your task. When you write down your to-do list, number them based what is most urgent. Set short-term and long term goals and set a specific time frame for each. Whenever possible, finish each task in the time frame that you set. Do not postpone small tasks, especially if it's part of a bigger task.

  4. Avoid overloading yourself. Despite your hectic schedule, you need to rest. Take some time to take as much sleep as you need, eat, socialize and exercise. When you're working on a task that's taking too much of your time, take short breaks. If there are additional tasks, say "no." Remember, the key to being productive is also being refreshed.

    5. Be flexible. As you work, there are unexpected things that can happen--you getting sick, having car troubles on your way to work, etc. You need to be able to fit these in your schedule without significanly impacting your tasks. You need to know how to rearrange your schedule so that it does not manage you, but rather you, managing it.

  6. Create a vision. As you start working on your task, you need to ask yourself, "why am I doing this task?" The bigger picture will serve as your guide towards achieving your goal. It is important that you also have a personal goal that you need to achieve. It can be short-term or long term but regardless of time frame, it will give you purpose and meaning.

  And don't forget, have a very positive attitude!

  Photo Credits:

http://confidencecenter.com/EmployeeMoraleCenter/webcards/index.php?pic=24-man-walking-on-clock

http://beta.getmytime.com/timesheet.aspx