Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Living Well

As the end of a school year draws near in Nevada County everyone's life takes on new dimensions. It becomes a matter of our managing time or time managing us.

Managing our time is a problem for most of us. Managing a household and finding time for family activities is not an easy task when you are working or planning to start working. You should keep in mind that every day is limited to 24 hours, no matter who you are or what you do. Everyone uses their time in different ways according to their culture, circumstances and priorities.

Here are some tips for taking charge of your time:

• Keep a calendar. This could be a small pocket one or a large one you keep posted at home. This takes care of trying to memorize all those activities in your head.
• Keep a 'to do list' and prioritize the list. Make a list of the things you need to do and want to do.
• Do the most important tasks when your energy level is highest. Determine when you have the most energy during the day. Save that time to do the most important tasks.
• Break big tasks into smaller tasks. Simplify tasks and combine tasks when possible. Instead of trying to clean the whole house, do one room at a time until the whole house is clean.
• Organize work and storage space. Put things that are rarely used in an out-of-the-way place.
• Keep important documents in one place. Avoid procrastination and time robbers. Beware of bad habits and practice trying to change them.
• Plan for 'do nothing time.' Don't plan all of your time. Let some things go undone. Leave time for relaxation, meditation or prayer.
• Be sure to let others help. Rotate chores between family members.
• Keep practicing.