Success is directly linked to how we use our time and energy, so how do we make sure that we’re using our time and energy in the right way for us? How are you using yours?
What Are The Main Time Suckers Affecting Your Success?
Time suckers can be anything that you get involved with that wastes your time, or something you’re so engrossed in that time passes really quickly. We’re not talking hobbies here, but those things you’re not gaining from, or being productive in. Some ideas of time suckers are: watching TV, checking emails multiple times a day, people (especially the negative ones), domestic chores, scrolling mindlessly through social media etc. You get the idea.
Setting Rules And Using Your Time And Energy Effectively
So what can we do to waste less time when we want to be successful in our business or career? Well, one of the best things we can do is to set some rules. Examples of these would be limiting email checking to twice daily, outsourcing some chores that we don’t really have time for (laundry, for instance), using the timer method for certain jobs, and time blocking (more on that shortly).
One example of the timer method could be to work for 50 minutes, stop and relax for 10 minutes (away from your workspace), then do 50 minutes work again. Repeat this sequence 3 times and you’ll have been fully productive for 3 hours. Can you imagine how much extra work you’ll get done when you focus your time like this? Especially if you’re the type of person who works better with a deadline looming. It doesn’t have to be 50 minutes, by the way – you may prefer to work solidly for 30 minutes then take 5 minutes off. The most important thing is that you choose a system that works for you.
Planning Works For Everyone
We are all different and one system doesn’t work for all, but planning works for everyone – providing we find the correct method for us. (Read more on Planning and Productivity over at PerfectlyOrganised.)
Time Blocking
Time blocking can also be a great productivity method. It involves scheduling specific blocks of time for each task or activity. This can help you to stay focused and avoid wasting time by continuously switching between tasks.
To begin time blocking, start by listing all of the tasks that you need to complete. Then, estimate how long each task will take. Once you have an estimate, schedule blocks of time in your planner/diary for each task. Be sure to leave some buffer time in-between tasks so that you can take short breaks and handle unexpected interruptions.
Time blocking can be a helpful way to improve your productivity and get more done in less time. However, it’s important to be realistic about how much time you have available and to be flexible when things don’t go according to plan.
Tips For Time Blocking
Start small – don’t try to block your entire schedule all at once. Begin with a few tasks each day and gradually add more as you get more comfortable with this method.
Be flexible – things don’t always go according to plan, so be prepared to adjust your schedule as necessary.
Take breaks – it’s important to take sufficient breaks to avoid burnout, so ensure you schedule in some time for them every day.
Reward yourself – when you complete a task, reward yourself with something you enjoy as this will help you to stay motivated.
Whatever we do throughout our day, the time will pass anyway. It’s up to us to recognise that and use it to our advantage: to take responsibility for ourselves and use our time and energy effectively.
Do You Waste Time With Negative People?
When it comes to people, things aren’t quite as simple. We need to weed out and identify the negative people in our lives, and limit our time spent with them as best we can.
Negative people can be toxic to our well-being. They can drain our energy, make us feel bad about ourselves, and sabotage our happiness. If you have negative people in your life, it’s important to learn how to weed them out.
How To Begin Weeding Out Negative People
Firstly, you need to identify the negative people in your life. Take a close look at the people you spend most time with. Is there anyone who consistently bring you down or who makes you feel bad about yourself? Anyone who is always complaining, or negative?
Set boundaries. Once you’ve identified these people, you need to start setting boundaries. This means limiting the amount of time you spend with them and not letting them get to you. Granted, it’s easier said than done, especially when those people are family members, but it’s essential for your mental health and well-being.
Cut ties. If the negative people in your life are causing you significant emotional distress, you may need to cut ties with them altogether. This can be difficult, but it’s important to remember that you don’t have to put up with toxic people in your life. By setting boundaries and cutting ties with them, you can create a happier and healthier life for yourself.
Success Isn’t All Down To Motivation
Motivation and inspiration can’t be forced on you. You need to ask yourself, where does your inspiration come from? What inspires you? It could be exercise, doing yoga, going for a run or a walk, or spending time in the gym: something that gets those happy hormones and endorphins going. Or perhaps it’s doing something creative, like painting or sewing? Whatever it is, be honest with yourself about it.
When you identify what inspires you – what truly gives you a feeling of inspiration – then you’re on your way to making inspiration work for you in all areas of your life.
Summary
Set rules and use your time and energy effectively. You do this by planning, time blocking, not wasting time with negative people, and finding out what motivates and inspires you.
Motivation will get you going, but inspiration will keep you going. So don’t just be a motivated person: be an inspired one! Stay connected to your true core values and be authentic to yourself, and success will surely follow.
More articles on personal development here.