Three Steps to Freeing Up Time

Life seems to run at a frenetic pace these days, and it is little surprise that many people can feel overwhelmed. However, it is possible to regain more control over what is happening by making a few small changes to free up more time.

1. Work out how do you actually spend your time
Now this may sound self-explanatory, but keep a time log of exactly how you spend every moment for a week and you may be surprised. People famously underestimate how long tasks take, so use your log as a reality check.
 
Once you have a better understanding of how long the different elements of your life need (e.g. family and friends, work, chores, admin, travel and exercise); you can start to create a realistic schedule.
 
2. Ring-fence your time
Next make a list of your commitments and see if there is anything you can tweak, or possibly remove. Differentiate between those things that have to happen and those things that you enjoy. What is there on your list that doesn’t belong in either section? How about you remove these items from your life and give yourself more time? Looking at your priorities can help clarify what’s in and what’s out.
 
As well and blocking out time for things that have to happen, it is also essential to ring-fence time for things that are important for you. Exercise is a good example of this. Dependent on your viewpoint, exercise may be a ‘nice to have’, rather than an essential. Remind yourself that regular exercise is essential to good health, so ensure you schedule that time and make it non-negotiable.
 
3. Learn to say no
It’s a great start to have a reviewed your commitments and edited them where possible; but all your good work will be useless if you then re-fill your time with things that are non-essential and non-beneficial because you are unable to say no. Remember that being clear about what you are and aren’t prepared to do makes things clearer for both you and those around you – and can avoid feelings of resentment or overwhelm if you didn’t say no.
 
Follow these three steps to put you back in control of your life and stop feeling that life is happening to you.