If you’re like a lot of people today, you always feel like you have too much to do. You probably also feel like you don’t have enough time to take care of everything on your “to do” list, much less have some time for yourself, as well. But there are ways to get more done faster, and still have the opportunity to do the things you want to do.
Here are some things to consider when you’re trying to decide how to tackle that list and incorporate enjoyable things that matter to you along the way. You really can have both productivity and enjoyment, if you organize things the right way.
1. It’s All About the Organization
Getting everything done and having time to relax really is about the organization of all the things that need to get done. If you manage your time and set proper goals, you’ll be able to complete the tasks that are important to you. By getting those things done quickly, you can turn your attention to the things you want to do, instead.
That way you get time for yourself, and the important things in life still get accomplished, as well. You need “me” time, so you can be your best self and be ready to face the day. Downtime can actually help you accomplish things more easily, as well as more quickly.
2. Set Priorities to Accomplish More
It’s simply not possible to do everything at once. While you might feel like you need to, so things can get completed, you’ll have to slow down and take a careful look at what’s going to be more important to you. By deciding on the truly important things, and prioritizing them, you can get them done when they really need to be.
Then the things that aren’t as important can be completed at a later date, over time. You’ll still get everything done, but it doesn’t all have to be done today. Not all tasks are priorities, and it’s important to know the difference.
3. Put Downtime in Your Schedule
Taking time for yourself, to do the kinds of things you want to do, should be something you schedule. Even if you’re busy, your time is precious and valuable. Make sure you’re taking some of it just for you, and the kinds of things that matter to you. Time to recharge is highly important, especially for people who have stressful jobs and busy lives that they might want to get away from now and then.
4. Visual Goals Can Keep You on Track
By using an app, a calendar, a white board, or some other method of visualizing your goals and your “to do” list, you can see what’s getting done, what matters, and what really doesn’t. That’s a great way to focus on what’s being completed, what’s coming up, and what isn’t going to get done the way you’d hoped.
You might have to make adjustments and move deadlines, but there’s nothing wrong with doing that for most tasks. There are very few things that absolutely have to be done at a certain time or on a certain day.
5. Be Reasonable With What You Can Accomplish
People get caught up in doing “all the things.” It’s nice to see how much you can get done, and it definitely gives you a sense of accomplishment. But you have to be fair and realistic about how much you can actually complete in a certain period of time. If you try to do too much, you risk getting overwhelmed and burned out.
That could lead to you actually getting less done, and still not getting any time for yourself. Schedule honestly, and be open to making changes as needed.
6. Let Time to Yourself Matter the Way it Should
No matter what kind of job you have or how busy your life is, you’ll probably have people telling you that you’re not doing enough. You might also find that people frown on taking downtime or doing something for yourself.
But self-care is not selfish.
In fact, it’s very important and a great way to keep you interested and engaged in your life. Because of that, you’ll want to focus on your value, and let yourself matter. You have a lot to offer to others, and you’ll do that in the best possible way when you’re well-rested and feeling like you’ve had some time for the things that matter to you.
