Time Is Of The Essence
September 23, 2008 by BloggerNewbie
Time Is Of The Essence?
I often write a “to do” list for the day that should be spread out over the week. I give myself unreasonable time limits on certain tasks that are impossible to complete. I want to get so much done but I usually set myself up for disappointment.
When I go about my day, whistling while I work, I go from one unfinished task to another before I stop myself. I start at one end of my house in my office 
filing papers, then I need to bring something from the office to the kitchen, once I’m in the kitchen I see I didn’t finish emptying the dishwasher and clean out the sink, but first I have to change the towel and dishcloth, and I better throw them in the wash before I forget, and look at the laundry I need to fold! Now I have how many tasks started? Am I going to accomplish anything this way?
My husband tells me I need to have discipline and follow through with what I start. Good suggestion, but what I really need is a plan (or for him to help me with house chores!). I need to write out the list (again), prioritize it and set time limits for each task. Whatever doesn’t get finished today, will be put on the list for tomorrow. In no time at all I could have a few things done and my mind would be clear of mental clutter and worry about the overload of tasks waiting for me.
On the other end of the spectrum, 
I have plenty of tasks I’ve procrastinated on due to the intimidating and enormous amount of time I thought they demanded. I grossly overestimate the actual time it will take me to complete each task. Then I am too overwhelmed to even start that task! I don’t have that kind of time right now. And I put it off!
The fact is, I create anxiety and worry when I over-exaggerate the time it takes to complete certain tasks, leading to feelings of being overwhelmed. I procrastinate and the problem continues to grow bigger and bigger in my mind, freezing me into inaction. If I start a project and it doesn’t take me as long as I planned I get motivated to start something else.
Over at Thinking Outloud Blog.com, Natural is looking for answers to her “to do” list dilemma. She feels like her life is A Million Little Pieces. When a task is weighing on your mind, challenge yourself, and see how long it really takes compared to how long you think it takes. Be reasonable with your time estimate. Leave yourself some time to complete the task rather than rushing through it. You won’t be as stressed! The better we can accurately estimate the time for a task, the less anxious and overwhelmed we will feel.
Toodles - Blog Happy!
“There is never enough time to do everything
but there is always enough time
to do the most important thing…”
- Brian Tracy
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Hi,
The way I try to prioritize tasks is with a to-do list. But then, I would break my larger tasks into manageable chunks.
Once I’ve completed one task, I would check it off my list. Every so often, I would take a break and reward myself with something small.
Then I would take a look at my list and realize how much I’ve already accomplished. This way, you will get to the finish line faster.
Thanks,
Richard Rinyai
http://www.theprofessionalassistant.net
@ Richard
The only way I feel organized is with a list. Writing it down just feels better. Now getting it done is another thing!
Hi,
I’m forevver getting stressed out about the things I have to do, work, kids, housework and then blog and webdesign in the evenings…does any one else feel like there just aren’t enough hours in the day?
My partner is forever writting lists of stuff to do but I don’t even seem to have the time to do that! I tried lists once before but I just keep getting distracted…I must stop doing that:)
@Webdesi3
That is my whole problem - distractions. I’m working on focus and finish right now. And no to do list? I wouldn’t be able to function!
hey BN, i’m slowly putting myself back together. a list and a schedule are a must for me, otherwise, i don’t see myself getting much done. i have been doing so well each morning managing my time that i haven’t been late to work.
i’m also going to do what i used to do, go back to breaking up my tasks over several days instead of trying to cram everything in on the weekend. by the weekend, i want to rest. if i dust on wed or friday, that’s fine. clean bathroom on saturday..i don’t feel like i can’t have some fun or down time too.
getting back there again.
@ Natural
I like your idea of having “dusting day” or “vacuum day”, that way it doesn’t get overwhelming, and I couldn’t live without my “to do” list either.
To do list? I did make a to-do list just for special reason. I think it will be better if I make the list for all of my activities and schedules. Thanks.
I could have written this post!I have struggled with this all my adult life, with some small progress over the years. My top two suggestions: flylady.net and choosing your daily MITs (most important things), which I think is an idea from zen habits and makes great sense.
@ Ecko
I can’t live without my “to do” lists!. I have a priority list, would be nice list and someday list! If it isn’t written down it doesn’t happen!
@ Ann
I think this is a struggle for most people. I need to add “delegate” to my helpful hint list. I will definitely check out the link you suggested. Have a great day.
A lot of unfinished tasks leads to depression! Particularly for folks that have goals and deadlines…like me. lol.
I believe your suggestion about being a bit kind to ourselves in estimating how long a task will take goes to the heart of the matter. I’ve actually had to battle depression over the past two days as a result of my ’slow pace’.
Thanks for this timely post…I feel much better now.
@ WD Favour
You are absolutely right because unfinished tasks create stress which creates depression. Been there done that, still do that….
I continually tell myself when I am jumping from one thing to another to stop and/or slow down - actually calm down and finish what I am doing.
I am glad the hints help and that you feel better.