Good Time Management - Use Distractions as Rewards

by Kristy T.
(Memphis, TN)

I work from home so time management has to be a priority.

I enjoy working at home in my pajamas with my little dogs curled up on my lap while I work away. However, there are problems with working from home.

The distractions and temptations are almost endless. I am constantly fighting the desire to turn on the TV, play with my dogs, or go about taking care of household chores.

I have found a few tactics that help me focus.

First, I leave my cell phone turned off.

I make a rule that no matter what by a certain time I will force myself to open up my computer and start working.

My most successful time management tip is that I use my usual distractions as rewards. In other words, I make a deal with myself by saying that if I complete a task I will play with my dogs for 30 minutes. If I read an article, then I will allow myself to watch a 30 minute TV show.

Of course there are times when sitting down and reading an endless dull article seems impossible. In those cases, I will give myself a page limit and say if I read 10 pages I will get up and do the dishes...anything to give my eyes a break.

These time management tips are simple, but they have worked well for me.