It is so hard to stay focused and get tasks completed. Not only does it feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day, but there are also so many distractions. It takes nothing to get the anxiety shooting through the roof. Then all of a sudden, it’s the end of the day and it feels as if you haven’t gotten anything accomplished. What you need is a solid time management strategy. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Put your phone away and on silent.

The phone is the main reason why we don’t get anything done. We’re too busy worrying about what others are doing instead of what we should be doing.

2. Write a list of everything you need to get done.

Creating a list identifies the tasks and organizes your thoughts. Now, you won’t be worrying if you forgot to do something.

3. Put your list in order by most urgent to least urgent.

I usually find that the most urgent tasks are the most important and difficult to get done. Get these tasks done first and your day gets significantly easier.

4. Allot a time slot for every task.

This will force you to focus on one task at a time. It will also make it so you complete more tasks in a day.

5. If you find your mind wandering or you are getting sluggish, take a five minute break.

Go for a quick walk, stretch, meditate, get a drink or snack. A mini break will rejuvenate the brain.

6. Delegate certain tasks to others or see if someone will assist you.

You don’t have to do everything yourself. A team is there to support and help. Remember that you all have the same goal.

7. Multi-tasking is not a thing.

First off, you can’t do two tasks at once. You just end up dividing your attention. Secondly, it is less efficient and can lead to mistakes. Instead, work on each task individually as previously scheduled.

8. At the end of the day, review how everything went?

Did you need more or less time for certain tasks? Are you happy with the results? What would you do differently? Asking questions will help pinpoint what worked or didn’t work so that you can make adjustments.

9. Remember that it is okay if you didn’t finish everything.

No need to stress or lose sleep over it. The uncompleted tasks will go to the top of the list tomorrow.

10. Repeat these steps to form new habits.

Soon, this will all be second nature and you’ll be a pro at managing your time.

A little bit of structure never hurt anyone. It’s usually the other way around. Having a schedule and being organized makes the day pass so smoothly and not because you’re not getting anything done. Instead, you are checking off the boxes on your list and not stressing as much because you learned how to manage your time better. Keep up the great work!