The Top 3 Things to Focus on When Managing Your Time

We all know that time management can be one of the trickiest things to accomplish. Once you think that you have a system, an emergency or additional responsibility comes up and you suddenly have to replan for everything. Trying to manage your time can also be tricky when you're busy or are involved in a lot of activities. Luckily, there are ways to combat feeling overwhelmed. One way to do this is to focus on three main aspects of your day: the things you need to do, the things you have to do, and the things you want to do. Note that there is a distinction between the things that you need to do and the things that you want to do. This is an important distinction and will be explained later. 

After you've defined the difference between your needs, wants and your have to do's you can then allot your time.  Your daily schedule will probably be contingent upon what you have to do. However, don't let that stress you out when trying to allot time for your needs and your wants.

Focus 1: The things you NEED to do.

In grade school we learn the difference between our wants and our needs. Our needs are defined as things that are necessary to our survival. Before you even consider starting to plan out your day you need to define what it is that you need to do. Because each person is different what one person may consider a need another person may consider a luxury. For instance, someone who deals with chronic pain may consider stretching every day or taking a warm bath once a week a necessity. While on the other hand someone who has no pain issues may consider this a luxury and include it in their list of wants. 

Here are some common needs:

• Mealtimes
• Physical Hygiene
• Physical Activity 
• Clothing
• Personal Care

While personal care may seem more like a want rather than a need, Southern New Hampshire University disagrees. "While many of us have a lot going on, it’s imperative that we take time out every day for ourselves, even if minimally." The article goes on to describe different methods of self-care and how it is beneficial to our everyday lives. Overall, the article communicates that "...taking some time out to engage in self-care, you may relieve the pressures of everyday life and reset yourself to get back to a healthy point where productivity is once again maximized."

Focus 2: The things you HAVE to do.

The things that you have to do typically fall around your vocation. If you work a regular nine to five job, then that part of your day is already blocked off. If you're a mom, then a large portion of your day is taken up by providing for your children's needs. If you work from home, your "Have to Time" is a little more flexible. Again, planning for your day is extremely individual and it's important to remember that your day probably won't look the same as a friend or colleagues'. 

Focus 3: The things you WANT to do.

While our society puts more emphasis on productivity and outcomes it's also important to find time in your busy schedule to indulge in creative or relaxing endeavors. This can help you unwind from a stressful or busy day and give you a sense of control over your time. 

Common activities are:

• Reading
• Playing video games
• Watching a movie or TV show
• Spending time in nature
• Playing an instrument 

The article "How to Actually Enjoy Downtime, According to Psychologists" from Byrdie has great insights into how to utilize and expand your mindset regarding downtime and the things that you want to do. 

By categorizing your daily activities and responsibilities you've made the task of managing your time that much easier. You've also been able to give yourself a different outlook on how things that you have to do shouldn't overlap with your needs, as those lines often get blurred. Hopefully, this will help you take on your schedule in a more relaxed and organized manner.

Sources

Southern New Hampshire University Article

Why is Self-Care Important? (snhu.edu)

Byrdie Article

How to Actually Enjoy Downtime, According to Psychologists (byrdie.com)