Time. Where Does It Go?

During the hustle and bustle of everyday living, it’s easy to lose yourself in the milliard of tasks that require your attention. Housework, yard work, family, friends, kids, work, sports, school, hobbies, commutes, networking, television, Internet, community work, religion, sleep, food, exercise, and writing all vie for the precious moments that make up your day. Meeting the demands of life can sometimes feel overwhelming. It’s easy to feel like you’re falling behind, almost moving in slow motion, in a world that spins at incredible speeds.

You’re not alone. Most of us feel that way. Here’s a few gems that I’ve collected over the years that help me keep pace.

• Make a list. If you don’t identify what you want/need to do, you’ll never effectively complete any of it.
• Prioritize. Identify the most important things that must be done.
• Schedule. Pick a time to do each task and write it down. I use a daily, weekly, and a monthly schedule.
• Budget. If you need to spend all day keeping track of Twitter updates, then you’re wasting the day. Allow yourself a set amount of time for each activity.
• Take a break. Schedule time to relax. Even batteries run out of energy.
• Cut. Yes, I said it. Not everything can/must be done every day. Choose what can be done tomorrow and do it then.
• Bend. Interruptions are a part of life. Plan on them by giving yourself flexibility in your schedule.
• Know your limits. A gallon of milk will never fit in a 12-ounce glass.
• Establish a routine. Keeping up with important aspects of your schedule becomes easier once a routine is followed.
• Hold yourself accountable. What happens if you don't do something? Is there a consequence? Know what it is and avoid it.
• Ask for help. It's possible to commit yourself to more than you can handle. When you do, ask others to share your burdens. You'll be surprised where the help comes from.