How I Manage My Time - 10 Time Management Tips

• 🧠 Definition: If you’re not totally excited about something, don’t do it.
• 📘 Example: "My friend asked me to help with their project, but it didn’t feel right for me. I decided it’s a ‘no.’ Now, I can focus on stuff that actually matters."
• 💡 Application: Save time by cutting out half-hearted ‘maybes.’ Only commit to things you truly care about—anything less should be a no.

• 🧠 Definition: Pick one thing each day that you have to get done, no matter what.
• 📘 Example: "Today, my main goal is finishing my science project. If I get it done, the rest of the day is a win."
• 💡 Application: Every morning, decide on one priority. Focus on it. If that’s done, you’ll feel accomplished, even if the rest of the day’s a mess.

• 🧠 Definition: Write down what you need to do, so you don’t forget.
• 📘 Example: "I use my Notes app to list out assignments. When I complete one, I cross it off, which feels great!"
• 💡 Application: Start a simple to-do list in your phone. Don’t rely on memory—get it down on ‘paper’ so you can actually see what needs to be done.

• 🧠 Definition: Schedule specific blocks of time for important tasks.
• 📘 Example: "I blocked out an hour after school for studying, and another for hanging out with friends. It keeps me balanced."
• 💡 Application: Take your daily highlight and schedule it. Even 30 minutes blocked for it makes a difference. Treat it like an unmissable meeting.

• 🧠 Definition: Work fills the time you give it.
• 📘 Example: "If I have an hour to finish my assignment, I somehow take the whole hour. But when I give myself 20 minutes, I get it done just as well."
• 💡 Application: Set strict time limits for tasks. You’ll get it done faster. Start with setting a timer for things you usually drag out, like studying or chores.

• 🧠 Definition: Create time that no one else can use but you.
• 📘 Example: "Mornings are my time to just read or relax. No one gets to interrupt it."
• 💡 Application: Decide on a daily "me time" where you can’t be disturbed. Use it for whatever you want—whether it’s gaming, reading, or working out.

• 🧠 Definition: Let someone else handle things that don’t need your full attention.
• 📘 Example: "Instead of doing all the editing, I let a friend who’s good at it help me out, and in return, I tutor them in math."
• 💡 Application: Pass on tasks you don’t have to do alone. Share chores with family, split project tasks with friends, or even swap skills.

• 🧠 Definition: Use apps to handle scheduling so you save time.
• 📘 Example: "Instead of texting back and forth, I just sent my friends a group chat link with our available times."
• 💡 Application: Use tools like Google Calendar or set reminders on your phone for meet-ups and important tasks. Less back-and-forth means more time saved.

• 🧠 Definition: Set limits so people respect your time.
• 📘 Example: "If I’m studying, I put my phone on ‘Do Not Disturb.’ My friends know not to call unless it’s urgent."
• 💡 Application: Let friends and family know when you’re busy. Don’t feel guilty about it—your time is precious.

Problem: You’ve got a math test, a group project due, and your best friend wants to hang out this weekend. You also really want to catch up on sleep. How do you manage?

• Pick Your Daily Highlight: Decide that your main focus is the math test since it’s time-sensitive.
• Set Up Time Blocks: Schedule time after school each day for math review and a block for the group project.
• Use a To-Do List: Write out steps for both the project and studying so you don’t miss anything.
• Use Parkinson’s Law: Give yourself 1 hour per task, max. After that, move on.
• Protect Your Time: Make Saturday morning off-limits for anything but rest. Sleep in, recharge.
• Use ‘Hell Yeah’ or ‘No’: Politely tell your friend you’re too busy this weekend but make a plan for next week.