Time management

**thebillionaire** · 11-02-2004, 05:48 PM

I really need help guys, I have poor time management skills, I'm always scrambling to finish my homework, never have time to work on my website or much. Any advice or site that can help me?

**r2d2** · 11-02-2004, 05:55 PM

Make a list of things that need doing.

Prioritise them.

Do them one at a time.

Dont get distracted.

May seem obvious, but having items on paper can really help you focus. Do the most important things first. And remember: checking your stats is always at the bottom of the list

**AndyH** · 11-02-2004, 06:38 PM

Yup, make a list.

For my newest project I have made a list that is ordered by priority of the task - in this case, some things depend on others so the structual things are done first.

While you go along just tick each one off.

**abelony** · 11-02-2004, 07:21 PM

Since I have a full time job, I have problems managing the 3 hours every night I use for web stuff.
One thing I have come in terms with is that I have to finish the current project before I move on. I have tried mixing projects but it just created more headaches. By the time I was done with something I had already forgotten how I did the other thing and would have to spend time trying to refresh myself. r2d2's advice is right on.

**chrispian** · 11-02-2004, 07:32 PM

1. Turn of "chat" programs like ICQ, AIM.
2. Answer email at designated times, not when it happens. Set aside time and make it a task on your list.
3. Make small lists that you can actually get done. I use 3x5 index cards. If it won't fit on one there is slim chance I'll get to it. I keep a longer list of "action items" but my active to-do list is on my 3x5.
4. When planning your to do list leave a little wiggle room for things that "come up".
5. Like with email, set aside times to browse forums, or do it when your taking a break.

Those are some of the things I do to help me keep focused. I have ADD an these things help. I still get distracted and lose motivation from time to time, but having a daily schedule helps me get done. I still don't do as much as I could be doing. I could probably do twice as much, if not more, without breaking a sweat. I just get distracted very easily.

**s2kinteg916** · 11-02-2004, 08:38 PM

i use to have the same problem but i just started with a notebook and dry eraser board.... i use the notebook for website idea's and plans... and i use to dry eraser board when i have to get task done on a particular site....

it reminds me that im lazy and need to get it done..

**Mike** · 11-03-2004, 01:01 AM

I've had the same problem this year, I've had so much homework and coursework to do I just don't have enough time as I used to have.

**chromate** · 11-03-2004, 06:38 AM

Originally Posted by s2kinteg916

i use to have the same problem but i just started with a notebook and dry eraser board.... i use the notebook for website idea's and plans... and i use to dry eraser board when i have to get task done on a particular site....

it reminds me that im lazy and need to get it done..

I use a dry board too. It's really handy. Though, even then I get distracted and start drawing pictures on it

**s2kinteg916** · 11-03-2004, 09:31 AM

LOL i think it works well though... Just dont lose your marker and ur set...

**moonshield** · 11-03-2004, 01:47 PM

To manage my time...

I plan out the month ahead of time on a monthly calendar. I plan when a specific article is due and then I do it. I like to visit realtor.com on my free time, to remeber what my goals are.

I dont visit forums when Im trying to get stuff done. Posting takes up a lot of time!

**James** · 11-03-2004, 02:07 PM

I've also got time management problems. Too much time doing things, not enough cleaning up after I'm done with them.

**thebillionaire** · 11-03-2004, 06:42 PM

The problem with me is that actually doing the work, why am I so lazy; I rather play than do any homework.

**James** · 11-03-2004, 07:19 PM

Then definitely work on getting a set time for homework. Have an alarm go off. Have a TV on in the background while doing it if need be--probably want just the news or something you'd often watch only if really really really bored.

**paulfitz** · 11-05-2004, 08:26 PM

Originally Posted by r2d2

And remember: checking your stats is always at the bottom of the list

LOL!

SO true, I have statsitis. I check stats on a couple of sites I have just started about 4-6 times a day :S

A complete waste of time. Much better spent actually developing new sites and creating content! Checking once a day is easily enough.

**Westech** · 11-05-2004, 09:06 PM

lol @ statsitis. I have a bad case of this, but I never knew what to call it. Lately I've caught myself compulsively switching back and forth and refreshing several sites' stats and my ad network stats. It's a huge waste of time when I can just check them once or twice a day and get the same info, but I just can't help myself.