Lecture Notes on Time Management

Jul 24, 2024

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.

Four Basic Skills of Time Management

  1. Reduce
  2. Prioritize
  3. Plan
  4. Execute

1. Reducing

  • 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).

2. Prioritizing

  • 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.

3. Planning

  • 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.

4. Executing

  • 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.

Closing Thoughts

  • Time management is about finding balance; constant growth is not required.
  • Set realistic goals and know when to take a step back.
  • Appreciate the progress made at your own pace.
  • Engage with new content (e.g., Youtube channel) for ongoing support.

Additional Resources

  • Instagram, TikTok for sporadic content.
  • Playlist on planning and organization available for further learning.