Time Management Lecture Notes

What is Time Management?

Definition: Ability to use time effectively or productively (Oxford Dictionary).
Analogy: Similar to packing clothes into a suitcase; organized tasks fit better in your schedule.
Purpose: Optimize and utilize our most finite resource—time.

Importance: Avoid wasting time on unimportant tasks.
Tip: Don’t aim for perfection in all tasks. Focus on what’s necessary to reach your goal (e.g., passing a class).
Perfectionism vs. Realism: Let go of "all or nothing" mindset.
Economics Concept: Principle of diminishing returns—more time invested doesn’t always yield proportional results.
Example: If you already have a good grade (e.g., 95%), focus on improving lower grades (e.g., an 80% in another class).

Revised Eisenhower Matrix: Focuses on two dimensions—Difficulty and Urgency.
Method: Do harder tasks first when energy is high, and address urgent tasks first.
Tip: Set interim deadlines for long-term projects to stay ahead of deadlines.

Best Method: Schedule tasks as if they were appointments.
- Steps:
  1. List tasks for the day/week/month.
  2. Estimate time for each task.
  3. Schedule them with a set start and end time.
Batching: Combine small tasks into one block for efficiency.
Reward System: If you finish early, allow yourself a break.
Tools: Use a planner or digital tools like Google Calendar.
Caution: Avoid analysis paralysis—80% good enough is better than waiting for perfection.

Tips for Efficiency:
- Outside Accountability: Work better in public settings where others are around.
- Two-Minute Rule: Commit to work for only two minutes to overcome procrastination.
- Efficient Systems: Research best practices within your tasks to improve efficiency (e.g., memorizing software shortcuts).
- Breaks: Important for long-term efficiency; tired brains produce poor work.