I like to use different techniques to get things done, such as to do lists and a bullet journal. But there’s one method that I find to be above all the others, because it makes you spend your time as wisely as possible, but it also keeps things interesting. And it’s super simple.
In the morning, I create a very detailed schedule that includes everything I should do that day, without leaving any time unscheduled: work, cleaning, break time, sending that one email or organising my desk. One thing per line, in one certain time frame. And then, I cover the list with a paper, showing the next item only when it’s time to start it.
This way, I’m not daunted by the amount of work I should do that day: instead, I only know what’s gonna happen for the next 30 minutes or so and it’s easy to consent to that. There’s always a chance of the next thing on the list being something really easy or fun.
Make it managable: Harder things, such as writing an essay, are cut into managable pieces of maybe 30 or 60 minutes, but they occur several times in the day. That way you can work on the hard stuff for hours, but it doesn’t get overwhelming.
Have many things on your list: There needs to be so many things to do (or fewer things cut into smaller pieces) that you can’t remember what things and in what order you’re supposed to do. This keeps it exciting: you may be writing a difficult essay now, but in 25 minutes you might have that break or take a shower.
Keep it fun: In addition to the important and difficult things you need to get done, you should also add fun things in your day, to keep yourself happy and energetic. Breaks are also important in case one of the things on your list takes a bit longer than expected, because you can use them to finish the task that was left unfinished when something unexpected happened.
Be tough on yourself: The system doesn’t work and you can’t trust in it yourself, if you let yourself slip. You can only do the thing listed for that time frame. If your mom calls when your working, you need to make up for the time missed; talking does not count for writing.
Make sure your day is in balance: Working for too long on something difficult makes you tired and your efficiency drops. Instead, distribute it throughout the day and add something fun or easy here and there.
+ If you ever wanted to learn French or go to the gym more often, here’s your chance: when it’s on the list, you can’t skip it.
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