12 Practical Time Saving Ideas

Time is priceless as the cliché goes. We can’t seem to have enough of it especially in our modern world.

Below are 12 ideas that could help you have more time to do things that really matter to you:

1.  Have less

Every time you acquire something new, like a new gadget, be aware of the time you’ll need to put into it. If your time is limited, perhaps it is better to cut back on some of that stuff.

2.  Have a routine

When you’re really busy, the more of a routine you have, the easier your life becomes. If you sleep at a certain time and wake up at the same time everyday, for example, it is easier to organise your day.

3.  Avoid time sappers

Internet browsing is a very good time sapper example. As much as possible, do it only when necessary as a few minutes can easily become an hour. Other time sappers for me are watching TV and playing games on my phone.

4.  Have a good night’s sleep

People generally function more efficiently if they had a good sleep the night before. Think of the time you lose when you feel sluggish and a bit off during the day.

5.  Make a habit of putting things in a certain place

Keys, eyewear and mobile phones are the common things we misplace on a daily basis. Keeping them in a particular place every time can save you oodles of time fluffing around for them.

6.  Keep a packing list

We usually spend hours packing our bags or luggage when we travel. Having a permanent packing list not only saves you time but keeps you from worrying that you forgot something.

7.   Stock up

You almost forgot it’s your nephew’s birthday party tonight. Imagine the heartache and time you will save if you already have a present tucked away in your closet.

Even if you don’t have an idea to whom it is for, it is a good idea to stock up on gifts and cards. The same goes for common items that we can easily ran out of like batteries, stamps, shampoo, tissue etc.

8.  Have a shopping list

You can spend the whole afternoon in the grocery shop if you don’t have a list of what you need.

9.  Read faster

With loads of information coming our way everyday, it definitely pays to learn some of those speed-reading techniques. And it would help if you just don’t read stuff that you don’t have to.

10.  Learn to say NO

People will usually understand why you can’t come or why you can’t do a particular task if you give an explanation. Better yet you can offer an alternative time to see them or offer an alternative solution to a problem.

11.  Plan your day

Knowing what you want accomplished during the day, and the whole week for that matter, makes you more focused. “Begin with the end in mind” according to Steve Covey.

12.  Know what makes a difference

Sometimes you don’t have to do a job perfectly – good enough is, well, good enough.

One last thought - If your life is always a mad rush, think about whether that’s actually what you want and, if not, you probably need to drop some activities in your life.

Feel free to share your ideas in the comments below.

Now be the best that you can be,

Xiela Marie Dacyon