Use a “tomato” timer
Keep track of how long it takes you to complete certain tasks. This will help you get a realistic idea and overcome over-optimism when planning. The “tomato” technique works well for tracking.
According to this technique, you should work intensively for 20, 30 or 40 minutes and then take a short break. The intervals are separated from each other by a timer. This technique helps you break down large complex tasks into manageable steps. Once you start one interval, you’ll want to finish the task without getting distracted by anything else.
Beware of those who encroach on your time
Protect your work time. Say “no” more often. Then you can focus on your own tasks and projects instead of only reacting to other people’s requests.
Don’t let yourself be pulled into things you don’t have time for. Saying no is hard, but it’s something you have to learn for the sake of your own concentration and sanity.
Scheduling mistakes make us feel overwhelmed. But if you notice and fix the problem in time, it won’t hurt your success as much. So don’t rely on a subjective idea of how long a certain thing will take. Measure and compare. Think back to how much your plans matched up with reality last time:
What went well and what didn’t go well?
What can you do differently next time?
Track your progress and make decisions based on this data.
