We've probably all had a nightmare about getting behind at some time or another, but if "behind" seems to be a permanent place for you, you may want to try some of the time management strategies listed below:

1.  KEEP A TIME LOG: ANALYZE YOUR TIME HABITS

Carry a notebook for a week. Every 30 minutes jot down what you're doing (a short note). Review the log to (1) evaluate whether deadlines are met without a crisis and (2) identify habits that keep you from achieving goals.

2.  CLARIFY YOUR OBJECTIVES. LIST EVERYTHING YOU PLAN TO DO. LEARN
    TO SCHEDULE

List specific measurable objectives, both short and long term. Use a planning guide to plan your time at least daily and weekly. Schedule key events, projects and deadlines. Make tasks manageable by dividing large tasks into smaller parts. Complete one part at a time. Update the list daily, crossing off finished tasks and adding new ones.

3.  ASSIGN PRIORITIES

Prioritize your list of things to do according to importance. "A" priorities are most important; "B" priorities are tasks that can wait until "A" tasks are finished. "C" priorities can wait or be moved as necessary.

4.  KNOW YOUR PEAK TIMES

Schedule time to do important tasks at high-energy times.

5.  CONTROL INTERRUPTIONS

Drop-in visitors, telephone calls, or TV can control your time. Learn to control them, tactfully but assertively.

6.  USE WAITING TIME EFFECTIVELY

Use time waiting in lines or offices by reviewing notes, writing letters, reading a book, etc.

7.  AVOID PERFECTIONISM

Don't waste time making every project letter-perfect or you may never begin or end anything. Procrastination is often the result of fearing it won't be perfect.

8.  PLAN CREATIVE TIME. TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF

Schedule daily time to meditate, exercise, relax, spend time with friends, sleep, and eat a nutritious diet.

9.  AVOID OVER-COMMITMENT

Learn to say no.

10.  TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF

Plan time for exercise, relaxation, social time with friends or family, sleep and proper nutrition.

SOME ADDITIONAL "SURVIVAL TIPS"

* Schedule blocks of uninterrupted time for the most important tasks.

* Establish at least one major objective each day and achieve it.

* Set time limits for every task you undertake.

* Eliminate one unimportant, time-wasting activity from your life each week.

* Allow flexibility for the unexpected but inevitable things that turn up.

* Take time to dream!
 
 

Taken from Northern Arizona University.