Time management is a constant challenge for me. You'd like that because I wrote a book, TimeManagement, Jesus' Way, I would have a handle on it by now, but it's one of those things that I never quite have victory over. So from one busy person to another, here are a few things I'm learning about my time management challenges, and some solutions I’m applying.
I fail to give myself enough cushion. I like the adrenaline rush of getting that "one last task" done before I head out the door. But I "forget" that it takes me 35 or 40 minutes to get to some destinations, not 30. If I would plan for a 45 minute commute, I could arrive in more peace.
Solution: I am taking more time in estimating how long something should take, and then cushioning it a bit more.
I let my personality get the best of me. I am a fast paced person who tends to juggle a few things at once. That's okay, IF I don't juggle TOO many plates at one time. Since I'm also a task-oriented person, I love getting a lot of things done. However that can make me too driven.
Solution: I am slowly learning to discipline my attention span and focus on tasks for a bit longer time before switching to something else. I am also reminding myself that what I finish is not the measure of my value.
I expect far too much of myself. For years I have been a juggler and responder. My jobs have naturally programmed me to respond to several messages quickly or get lots of little things done. Because I therefore can mark a lot off my to-do list (many of my tasks are small) I tend to expect I should get them ALL done. I create lists that are too large and then hurry to finish them, getting that adrenaline rush to fill the need I've created within myself.
Solution: apply the Gospel to my life...the fact that Jesus is enough. I don't need to prove to Him or others what I can accomplish. I tend to enjoy having a reputation for quick responses, but must keep my motive pure. Am I doing that to serve others, or so they will think well of me?
How about you? What time management challenges do you have? What have you learned about yourself?
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Hi Beth,
ReplyDeleteYou sound a lot like me. Thanks for these tips. I too am struggling with time management and trying to do too many things. My boss recently told me that I do not have a plate but a platter full of things to manage. She is right.
I constantly struggle with feeling like a failure or that I am letting some ball drop I'm supposed to be juggling or that I am messing something up. This is driving me to the Lord and He is constantly telling me to relax and take time to enjoy life. Life is not sprinting towards a goal but a leisurely walk with time to smell the roses.
God is teaching me how to focus as well. I've almost forgotten how to focus on one thing at a time. I'm trying to use the Pomodoro Technique to help me stay focused on one thing for 25 minutes, then take a 5 minute break (or longer if necessary) to get things done.
And finally, when I feel overwhelmed, I am learning to ask the Holy Spirit for guidance on how to organize my time and for wisdom on doing things more quickly.