Time management essentials

What is often one of the biggest differences between good and average students? Time management skills. And with most families' schedules filling up quicker than ever with school, sports, and social obligations, effective time management has graduated from something "good to know" to a survival skill.

So this month I am passing along some tips to talk about with or teach your family. If we can help kids and teens establish good time-management habits at an early age, they will have a better chance of leading a successful and well-balanced life.

Start with a Vision
Know that school and your life does not have to be chaotic and frantic. How much time do you think you should spend on school work, socializing, entertainment, etc. in order to get the results and lifestyle you want? Get clear on what you want from your time — set goals you want to achieve

Be Aware and Curious
How do you currently spend your time? (Consider keeping a log for a week.) What strategies do you currently use? How well are they working for you? Are there better strategies? How could you find out? When you have a few spare minutes, how could you use it wisely? When, where, and how do you work best or have the most energy?

Be Realistic
Try to avoid over-scheduling—recognize you may not be able to do it all and choices will have to be made. Remember it's OK to say "No" to people sometimes. How can your past choices (experience) help to let you know if your current choices are good ones?

Plan Ahead and Use a Schedule
Break your goals down into action steps to be completed, and schedule them on a calendar or list. Planning not only makes you more aware of what you need to do, it can get your sub-conscious working on finding more efficient ways or short-cuts to save you time.

• Make weekly and/or daily "to-do" lists
• Post your schedule in a public place or share it with people who will help to hold you accountable.
• Prioritize Your Tasks
• Do the important things first (vs. the ones you like to do) Set deadlines and remember the words of psychiatrist Milton Erickson, "A goal without a date is just a dream."

Avoid Procrastination & Distractions
People often procrastinate for one of three reasons: they do not have what they need (time, tools, help, etc.), they are afraid of the consequences (failing, or being successful), or the task does not seem connected to their values. Figure out what may be standing in your way. Try to avoid distraction (a.k.a. "time robbers") like checking your email, answering the phone, playing music or the TV too loud (or at all for some people). What are your distractions?
… and the best way to help teach these skills to our children is to lead by example. While sometimes easier said than done, it does provide us a chance to sharpen our skills and let our kids sometimes see us learn lessons from our mistakes.

Interested in more support or having Rob speak at your child's school? Visit www.ParentingWithIntention.ca or www.YouthCoachCanada.com for more information.