Four Ways to Save Time

Oh where does the time go?! At this point in the semester people seem to be constantly trying to figure out how they can possibly fit all the things they have to do into one already packed schedule. Well, I've done some brainstorming and interviewed some people that I'd consider professional time-savers and this is what we came up with...

1. Use an hour-by-hour planner. These things are so helpful. It takes some getting use to, but scheduling out your day is a great way to keep from not being able to account for lost hours. First, block off the set appointments such as class, work, or meetings, then fill in the gaps with other responsibilities like homework. I even jot down times that I have planned to go out with friends. The organization makes life so much less hectic!

2. The Do-It-Now principle. This is wisdom that I should really put into affect in my own life. The idea is that for every time you catch yourself making that mental note of "Oh, I really need to do that," do it right then! If you need to remember to make a call or print something off, take a minute and do it while you have it on your mind. This relieves the burdensome list of to-do's hanging heavily over your head.

3. Grouping. This saves so much time. When you need to visit some place to get something done, take care of all possible errands that will need to be taken care of at this particular place all at once. If you need to print an assignment, check out a book, and get some studying done, do it all in one trip to the library. This also goes for Wal-mart. If you've got several items to pick up, do your best to have a list handy so that you can check everything off at once. Running back and forth can be a major time consumer.

4. Try making a chart. This is a great way to prioritize. Make out a chart of what you need to do and divide each into columns from most to least important. Get the most important items out of the way first, obviously. Then go on through the chart as such, making sure that you are using your time wisely. This prevents the natural procrastination of doing major projects after you've done all the fun stuff. Once the tasks are done, you suddenly have freedom to enjoy the other things left to do...or at least freedom to be less stressed about it.