Self-management stands and falls with good organization
1. Self-management tip: Check the planning
Take a moment in the evening, review the day and make a target/actual comparison between planning and execution: What went well, where did you totally screw up, what can you do better and what do you have to do next present day? Check regularly whether your time estimates are correct, otherwise you have no chance of learning from incorrect estimates. In this way, you refine your planning step by step. It is important to find the right balance between self-discipline and flexibility. Pay attention to two poles: On the one hand, don’t be too strict with yourself, otherwise you’ll throw in the towel at some point in relation to your planning. But don’t be too careless either, otherwise all the effort won’t have the slightest effect.
the fact is: If you don’t take stock, you won’t be able to plan and implement your success. You forgive yourself a lot because you only gain more time if you analyze errors and derive changes from them.
2. Self-management tip: Don’t take planning lightly
In many companies, it is important to have someone who constantly complains about a lack of time and is under (often self-made) time pressure (“he/she always has sooo much to do”). That is why the person resists – often unconsciously – against appropriate planning. Not infrequently for fear of appearing less respected in the eyes of others. Or he can’t deal with suddenly having more free time because he can’t do anything with it. If you recognize yourself in this description, then now is a good time to do something about it. Because the best planning is useless if you keep boycotting yourself. Start planning ahead within reason and you will get more done, have more time for yourself and be more relaxed in life.
3. Self-management tip: Estimate the duration of tasks and projects
If this is difficult for you, write down the time you think you need to do it and the time you actually needed after each task. In this way you gradually get an idea of how long you actually need for certain things. Then build in some buffer time in later planning. But keep in mind: The work always fills the available time. So be honest with yourself, because that’s the best way to get there. Buffer times are always good to have in reserve for unforeseen events, interruptions or just a coffee break. If you implement this type of planning consistently, you will be rewarded with less stress and hectic and more satisfaction.