Managing Time Effectively = Less Stress

High levels of stress is one of the down sides of modern life for many people. In our 24-hour go-go society, we can easily fall into the trap of running ourselves ragged trying to keep up with all of our many responsibilities. Along with eating well, exercising, and other wellness strategies and stress reduction techniques, learning to manage our time is one way we can deal more effectively with stress.

Today's article gives some valuable tips about how we can make better use of our time, and while it is written specifically to women, these ideas can apply to all of us. It is critical that we take whatever steps necessary to reduce stress in our lives to avoid its many potential hazards, both physical and emotional. Managing time well allows us to both avoid poor behaviors and have the resources to pursue positive lifestyle choices as well.


Time Management -- Tips to Reduce Stress
Article Date: 09 Oct 2008 - 0:00 PDT

Many women know the overwhelmed feeling caused by too much to do and too little time. Better time management can help you do more. And it has health benefits, such as less stress and a better quality of life.

The October issue of Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource offers tips to improve time management. The recommendation is to try one strategy for two to four weeks to see if it helps. If it does, add another. If not, try a different one. Here's a few to consider:

Plan each day. A schedule minimizes conflicts and last-minute rushes. Write a to-do list with the most important tasks at the top. Even if you don't get through the list, you'll know time was spent constructively.

Say no to nonessential tasks. Let priorities determine your schedule rather than letting guilt have the final say.

Delegate. Consider what you can eliminate or delegate from your to-do list. Be willing to let others do tasks differently from how you do them.

Take time to do a quality job. Doing something right the first time may take more time up front, but errors caused by rushing may require longer to correct.

Practice the 10-minute rule. Work on dreaded tasks for 10 minutes each day. Once a task is started, you may be able to finish it.Evaluate how you are spending your time. Keep a diary for three days to track tasks. Look for time that could be used more wisely, freeing up time to spend exercising or with family and friends.

Get plenty of exercise and sleep. Improved focus and concentration help increase efficiency, so you can complete tasks in less time.

Take a time management course. Employers, community colleges and community education programs often offer these classes.

Take a break when needed. Too much stress can derail attempts at getting organized. When you need a break, take one. Take a walk. Do some quick stretches. Take time for a day of relaxation when you need it.

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/124809.php