Priyanta Islam
Some of us can manage our 24 hours with such impeccable efficiency that not even a single minute is wasted. They are almost as accurate as a computer, executing their tasks with zero system loss. However, most of us though, let’s just say we are a bit less efficient. Procrastination is our favorite pastime. We love working under a deadline induced panic and regardless of the time we are given for the task, we will only start working on the day before the submission date. We struggle to keep up with the clock only to fall behind our schedule. A little insight into why we keep failing might help us overcome our problems with time management.
Our approach to managing our tasks and allotting time for it is one of the primary causes for our inefficiency. We often try to finish a lot of work within a short span of time to increase efficiency. But that approach in turn decreases our efficiency. We keep considering all the tasks as a whole, seemingly impossible to reach completion within the given time. The better approach is to divide the work, instead of the time. When we divide our tasks in small parts it becomes a lot easier for us. For example- A task that requires approximately about one hour might seem onerous, but dividing that task into four parts each requiring fifteen minutes sound a lot less stressful.
Another dilemma we face when managing our time is that we overestimate our efficiency. We needlessly attempt to be perfect. For example, we may plan to completely finish an assignment within an hour. But in reality, it will take longer. Because there will always be uncertainty and system loss in everything, which we often forget to consider. We must first understand the level of efficiency we possess and then work on it. Our efficiency will not increase over night but give it a month or two, it will get a lot better.
Most important advice for managing time is do not take more on your plate than you can handle. Divide everything in to small parts and micro-manage your work and time. Take breaks whenever necessary. Hopefully with time, you will stop falling behind your schedule and spend your days in a more productive way.
Priyanta Islam is a high school graduate who loves literature, Pink Floyd and The Lord of the Rings. Occasionally, he somehow convinces himself that he is Gandalf the Grey.