Managing your time

     Set Goals. Set goals which are specific, measurable, realistic and achievable. Your goals are those which cause you to "stretch" but no "break" as you strive for achievement. Goals can give people a much- needed sense of direction.

     Use A To Do List. Some people prefer using a daily To Do List which is continously being updated. Whatever method works is best for you. 

     Use A Daily/Weekly Planner. Consult your planner to remind yourself of upcoming deadlines or due dates for projects, reports, papers, etc.

     Spend Time Planning and Organizing. Using time to think and plan is time well spent. Organize in a way that make sense to you. A plan requires that you consider where, when, and what exactly you are going to do.  

      Prioritize. Allot time to the goals you find most important and urgent. Have your "to do list" and try to work from the most important to the least important. Decide what you need to at the moment and what to put off for a later time period.

     Establish A Routine. Establishing a regular routine of grocery shopping, sleeping, exercising, eating, etc. conditions you to do things at regular times. This enables you to follow through your activities. A routine can actually provide you a sense of structure.

     Be Flexible. Allow time for interruptions and distractions. Have the flexibility to handle interruptions and unplanned "emergency."

     Avoid Being A Perfectionist. Paying unnecessary attention to detail, can be a form of procrastination.

     Conquer Procrastination. Get into the "NOW" habit, find the motivation to begin things right away. The sooner something is started, the sooner it is finished, and the more you'll have for other stuff.

     Make Room For Entertainment And Relaxation. You need to have a social life; yet, you need to have a balance in your life. The trick is to learn how to keep you balance.

    Reward Yourself. Even for small successes, celebrate achievement of goals. Doing so will help you maintain the necessary balance of life between work and play