Time management is so important, especially since we’re still in the middle of a global pandemic. Unfortunately, it can be really hard to strategize and manage your time efficiently and effectively while still maintaining a healthy work-life balance in quarantine.

Here are five different time management tips and strategies that can help you feel more productive and more in control of your to-do list, which can do wonders for your wellness.

Tip #1: Just say no.

Just say no to things you can’t do or don’t want to do–set some boundaries around your time. Now that many of us are working from home, it can be really hard to turn off the work time and start relaxing. When you look at your to-do list, what are some things that you don’t need to do/don’t have to do? Decide what is urgent and needs to get done ASAP, versus what is important but doesn’t need to get done right now.

Tip #2: Incentivize.

We’re all a bit more apt to get sh*t done when there’s a reward waiting for us at the end. What is something that you enjoy doing that you can use as an incentive for yourself? Use something that you love to do to help you get through something that you don’t want to do and make it worth your while. This also helps you change your mindset into a more positive one by focusing on what you GET to do, instead of what you HAVE to do. This will help you take control over your time and continue to put yourself first.

Tip #3: Make a short list.

A to-do list with a few items (think–3 things) is much easier to get through than a list that has 40+ tasks. A short list gives us more control over feeling accomplished with the way we manage our time.

Tip #4: Break down your short list.

If you have some bigger tasks on your short list, break those down even further into smaller steps. This can make those tasks seem less daunting and can jumpstart your motivation to accomplish everything you need to do. Motivation comes from action, which means if you get something done you’ll be more motivated to keep up your momentum. Breaking your list down gives you something to show for all the time you’re putting into accomplishing tasks. For visual learners, this is especially helpful as you’ll literally be able to SEE your progress.

Tip #5: Align with your energy levels.

Be aware of your energy levels–when in your day are you most productive and have the greatest capacity for critical thinking? Once you figure this out, you can move your tasks around accordingly based on what works best for you. Sometimes we don’t always get to choose what we have to do, but we do have control over when choose to do it. Use your energy to your advantage and schedule your day accordingly.

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Want to work more in-depth on your own personal struggles with time management? Click here to schedule a session with one of us at The Therapy Studio.