5 Steps for Stellar Time Management (Ep 106)

The New Year is here, and I can’t wait to make the most of it. Last year wasn’t terrible, but like many of you, I’m ready for a fresh start. I’ve been reflecting, setting goals, and thinking about how to stay on track. If you’re also looking to organize your life and make this year your most productive yet, I’m sharing my top five time management tips to help you take control and achieve your goals.

Why Planning Matters

Before diving into the steps, let’s think about time for a second. We all get the same 24 hours each day. How we use them makes all the difference. Without a plan, life tends to overrun our schedules. But with clear goals and intentional use of time, you’re in the driver’s seat.

1. Start with Your Goals

First things first: You need goals to guide you. Grab a quiet moment, a notebook you love, and brainstorm. What do you want your life to look like in the next few months? Which changes would make the biggest impact?

Here’s what to do:

• Write down everything that comes to mind without holding back. Don’t worry about what anyone else will think.
• From that list, narrow it to 5–8 specific goals. Focus on things you’re excited about or want to prioritize over the next three to four months.

Once you’ve got your goals, make it a daily practice to write them down in real-time. Use present tense, as if they’re already happening. For example, instead of “I want to exercise more,” write, “I am healthy and active.” This helps train your mind to believe it and act on it.

2. Give Your To-Do List a Home

A scattered to-do list is the enemy of efficiency. Instead of scribbling tasks on random papers or sticky notes, choose one central place for your list. Here are three options:

1. Use the Notes app on your phone. Create a note just for the year and add to it regularly.
2. Dedicate a notebook where all your tasks live.
3. Try a time management app like Trello. It lets you organize tasks into boards, color-code, and even delegate if needed.

The key here? Stick to one system. When everything has its place, you waste less time tracking things down.

3. Choose and Use a Planner

A planner can be your best friend for managing time, but only if you actually use it. Whether you prefer a digital calendar or a paper planner, pick one that suits your needs and schedule weekly planning sessions.

Here’s how to make it work:

• Set aside a regular time—say Sunday afternoon—to plan the upcoming week.
• Add appointments, deadlines, and any non-negotiables.
• Block out time for personal priorities, whether it’s organizing your closet or spending time with family.

If you’re going digital, take advantage of color-coding and notifications. If paper planners are more your thing, make sure it’s a layout you enjoy using daily.

4. Set Boundaries Around Your Time

Boundaries keep your schedule from being hijacked. Once you’ve planned your week, protect your time. For instance, if you’ve blocked off Wednesday evening for an important task and someone asks for your time, check your planner and say, “I’ve got something scheduled.”

Remember, you don’t need to explain or feel guilty. Stick to your priorities.

5. Use Timers for Focus

Some tasks feel overwhelming, but even 30 focused minutes can make progress. Grab a timer, set it, and work uninterrupted until it goes off. Then, give yourself credit.

Here’s why this works: Taking small, consistent steps over time adds up. Plus, breaking tasks into manageable chunks helps avoid burnout.

For example, if organizing your home feels like too much, start with one drawer for 30 minutes. Repeat this process for other projects, and before you know it, you’ll see results.

Stay Consistent

Habits form through repetition. These five tips will feel easier the more you practice them. Remember, you don’t have to be perfect. Just aim to stay consistent and celebrate your wins along the way.

If you’re looking for extra help with time management or organizing your life, I’m here for you. I’m offering individual coaching and a new time management course soon. Check out my website or sign up for a free 15-minute intro call to see how we can tackle your goals together.

Let’s Make This Year Count

2022 is your chance to take control of your schedule and make real strides toward your dreams. By setting clear goals, keeping your tasks organized, and protecting your time, you can create a life that feels purposeful and manageable.

If you’re someone looking to join a supportive community or want guidance, reach out. Or, if you’re super organized and looking for a meaningful role, I’m growing my team this year and would love to hear from you.

So grab your goals, pick a planner, and set yourself up for success. This can be your best year yet—with the right approach, anything’s possible. Happy New Year and happy planning!

Need help getting organized and improving your time management skills? If so, I can help! Check out my monthly membership: The Created Order Neighborhood.