Time management isn’t easy for teens and adults; however, there are ways to improve time management skills. Most job descriptions describe the need for a responsible person or manager with great time management skills. But really, what does it mean to have great time management skills? How can teens and young adults learn more on how to improve their time management skills? Time management is the process of organizing one’s schedule to get things done properly in a timely manner. Learning how to properly manage time and scheduling things on a to-do list makes sure that things get done and reduces anxiety.

From early on, time management is encouraged when youth attend school. Most students first encounter issues with organization and time management when they have to prepare deliverables for a project or study for a test. There doesn’t seem to be enough time in the day to organize one’s schedule!

Use Your Agenda and Tick off Things as You Go
According to an article by Very Well Family, most young adults put things off until the last minute. Although, some teachers give teens some grace when it comes to excuses, in real life, most people won’t be as forgiving and it can affect a person’s livelihood. Using the school agenda in high school to jot down things to do, appointments and school practices will allow a person to get things done. It can be quite satisfactory to cross off items accomplished in a day.

Develop a Morning Routine
Waking up on the wrong side of the bed or rushing out of the house without the right type of clothing to catch the bus or running late for work can be stressful. Starting off the day on the wrong foot sets the tone for the day. Waking up at the same time every day, eating breakfast, setting an exercise or self-care routine for just 30 minutes in the morning helps you start off the day awake, alert and ready to go.

Determine When You are Most Productive
Productivity is different for everyone; some people are early-risers and can perform many things before noon. Some young adults and teens have trouble performing tasks, even school and work responsibilities, in the morning. Setting goals with a timeline will also ensure that they get accomplished. Also, learning how to delegate will come in handy, by assigning some simple tasks to those who can help, freeing up some time.

Time management affects work performance, organization, diminishes clutter in the home, ensures goal setting, reduces anxiety and allows for better sleep. Most people who do not properly time manage tend to sleep late and be less productive the next day. Time management can help establish good habits early on in life to pave the way for a better future.