Care Counseling: Making Time on a Busy Schedule

Making Time on a Busy Schedule

One thing that seems to run out quickly is time. After all, there are only so many hours in a day.

How do I make time in my busy schedule to finish all work and school-related tasks?
How do I fit in time to focus on my family and friendships?
What if you are in a relationship, and they are wanting more of your time?

Oh no! How do I fit in eating healthy, exercising, getting enough sleep, sex/ intimacy, and self-care? Is this even possible when juggling busy schedules, especially when managing not only your own schedule but possible others in the mix? Kids and pets make this especially difficult! What if your position at work is demanding and you feel like you are constantly on call? How do you make time in your busy schedule?

Here are some tips to help:

Keep a Weekly Log [for 1-Week]

By knowing where you spend your time, who you spend your time with, and how much of your time is being spent on various activities, you will identify current priorities and have a basis to find ways to re-allocate time.

Identify Your Priorities:

What is important to you? Your most important tasks should come first. What are your values? Does your current use of time align with your values? By identifying your priorities, you can then prioritize being available for these.

Work Smarter, Not Harder:

Finding simple ways to streamline time consuming tasks can help create precious time in an already busy schedule. How much is your time worth? Consider delegating out tasks.

Develop Daily Habits:

Getting into daily habits, or rituals such as making your bed, eating a healthy breakfast, and spending set time on focused tasks can help you stay on task with time management.

Use a Schedule and Stick to It:

Utilize block scheduling, using a planner/ calendar. I block off time that I spend at work. I take off time in advance to be designated for personal appointments and plan for things like vacations.

Set Goals and Write Them Down:

Not only is it a good idea to set personal goals but write them down. Find an accountability partner. I enjoy coming alongside my clients to provide support in this role. You do not have to wait until New Years to set goals. Try breaking down long-term goals into 3-month objectives and prioritizing how you spend your time each day.

Problem Solve Barriers:

Difficulties getting started, losing momentum, lack of positive reinforcement, feeling “stuck”, getting distracted, feeling down, and feeling tired… These are all common. There may be additional interventions and resources that are needed to address underlying blocks or barriers. Simple but powerful strategies such as taking prescribed medication, reducing visual clutter on a workspace, learning how to say “no”, and turning off notifications at certain times of day can be helpful.

Don’t Give Up:

You can do it! These things all take time to develop.

Written by Charlotte Johnson, MA, LPCC

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