Time Management: 10 Tips for Being on Time

In a previous article, I wrote about all the reasons that time is important. Assuming you read it and agree with me, then read on to get some tips about how to be on time.

Time management tip #1 Be well rested. When you are tired, it is difficult to motivate yourself to be on time for anything. If you get enough rest to not feel sluggish during the day, your chance of being on time for appointments and events will be increased. A good way to ensure that you are well rested is to go to sleep at a decent time.

Time management tip #2 Get up early. Getting out of bed in plenty of time to accomplish all tasks is a good way to ensure timeliness during the day. As my dad used to say, "the early bird gets the worm".

Time management tip #3 Trick yourself and set your clock ahead 15 minutes. Even though you know your clocks are wrong, you can still trick yourself into following it. Over time, you won't have to do it anymore because it will get you into the habit of always leaving early.

Time management tip #4 Lie to your family. If you find you are only late to event when you go, as a family, then lie to them about what time you need to be places. If you have to be somewhere at 4:30, tell them 4:15. Chances are they won't even notice that you got there on time.

Time management tip #5 Be prepared beforehand. Every night, prepare your wardrobe, and any items you need to bring with you. This will prevent lost time getting dressed and looking for items at the last minute.

Time management tip #6 Put items in a standard spot. Don't waste your time scouring the house looking for your cell phone and car keys. Put a basket or hook by the door you normally use and get into the habit of keeping them there.

Time management tip #7 Strategically schedule your day so that you spend as little time as possible driving back and forth. This will also save you money of gasoline.

Time management tip #8 Do a countdown. If your kids are like mine, they don't understand how quickly time can pass and this causes them to waste time. Instead of assuming they are getting ready (while I am getting dressed) when they are actually watching TV or counting their toes, I call out how much time we have before we leave. If find it very effective to yell, 'we're leaving in 30 minutes' and then 'we're leaving in 20 minutes' and so forth until it is time to go.

Time management tips #9 Eliminate distractions. If you can eliminate distractions like a dirty room, television programs that might distract you, you can focus on the task at hand, which may be meeting a deadline, or getting to a meeting. To do this, you need to pay attention to what distracts you and take steps to change those behaviors.

Time management tip #10 Create a schedule. Take the daily checklist one-step further. Instead of just writing what you need to get accomplished in a day, also write down the time you need to get it accomplished. This will help prioritize your day and help you better manage your time.