Everyone complains about having limited time and about the scarcity that comes with it. What if we could stop time or go back in time to alter it and amend it? Unfortunately, we cannot do that.
This is the juncture where time management strategies fit into place. So, what are some popular time management strategies? Keeping awareness and preparation constant.
Before diving into that, let's also throw in a different perspective. Especially, the one that concerns the specific time management framework and situation for freelancing and freelancers.
With freelancing, you have the flexibility to work on your terms, but you also need to transform yourself into an excellent time manager. If you do not focus on managing an incalculable asset then, all your tasks can pile up, you can miss deadlines, and the soaring stress levels may become excruciatingly painful.
In turn, this can cost you in both domains such as financially and physically; as in your mental health.
Before we dive deeper into this topic, I would like to remind you that setting goals is akin to picturing what you want to achieve. And where do you want to see yourself? That is; in a specified period.
Prioritizing after setting clear goals: - Clarity is your friend -
The Eisenhower Matrix can prove to be an effective tool while juggling multiple clients and projects. You bifurcate all your worldly tasks into four key areas Urgent and important, important but not urgent, Urgent but not important, and Neither urgent nor important.
The Matrix can cater to other areas of your life which may include:
- Productivity
- Stress
- Decision-making &
- Adaptability
Structuring your schedule:
The next step is to provide a structure to your schedule. Which may also refine your schedule to prevent aimlessness and procrastination.You can opt for the time-blocking system which is simple to apply. All you need to do is to divide your hours into tasks, breaks, and leisure.
Utilizing digital tools like Notion may help you become more time-aware.
Tech leveraging:
Tech leveraging is all about Automating redundant tasks with the help of technology. Some actionable tips can be to search online for an excellent task/event/calendar management S.A.A.S that is affordable and as per your needs. Some popular project management, and Kanban systems are Trello and Asana.
The Pomodoro technique:
I have personally tried it, and here is a breakdown of why this technique works? When you set a timer for 25 minutes for a task - You automatically shift your focus from other thoughts and occupations to the task at hand or the timer itself. Now whenever your thoughts start roaming around, you suddenly have a glimpse at the timer and due to an urgency you get back to completing that task.
In a simple pomodoro you "Work for 25 minutes on a task, then you may take a 5-minute break. After four cycles, you may take a longer 15-30 minute break."
No! Yes - You need to learn how to say "No":
Some No's are harsh. You must learn the soothing effect that a well-crafted and polite "No" can have on the person you are saying No to. On the contrary, overcommitting will lead to burnout and may even reduce the quality of your work.
Eliminating distractions can make your mind decluttered:
In life, you may have a variety of achievements, and distractions can derail your workflow and waste valuable time.
Turning off non-essential notifications can immensly improve you flow. Apart from that, you can set up a dedicated clutter-free workspace that eliminates intteruptions.
Set realistic goals and deadlines and batch similar tasks together:
Set Realistic Deadlines: You can avoid stress by including buffer time for postponement and delays and communicating your readiness and availability to clients.
Batch Similar Tasks: Group similar tasks (e.g., content creation, email) and schedule specific times to handle each batch.
Finally, take care of your health:
Your productivity is directly impacted by your physical and mental well-being. Excercising regularly, Brisk walks, staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet are the key areas that need an incorporation.
Final Thoughts:
Remember that "Freelancing" is a marathon, not a sprint— work smarter, not harder!
