It's been a long time since I wrote a weekly journal. Today, I want to record my recent insights on time management, mainly focusing on developing habits.
1#
A month ago, I was recommended a time tracking software called Session by someone, so I immediately downloaded and tried it.
I always eagerly try out time management tools because I feel that there is still a lot of room for improvement in my time management skills. Additionally, I also want to see how the creators of this product intend to solve the problem of time management.
We often hear a self-deprecating saying, "The closer the deadline, the higher the work efficiency." This is actually a problem in time management.
Sometimes, after being busy for a while, I suddenly realize that what I have been busy with is completely different from what I originally wanted to do.
2#
After using Session for a month, it has indeed brought some benefits to my time management.
- Increased Focus with Clear Goals
Because the duration to be maintained is not long (default is 30 minutes), the goal is a very specific task, and seeing the goal makes it clear what needs to be done.
During this period, I constantly remind myself that unless it is something extremely urgent, I will not interrupt myself to do things other than the goal, and always maintain focus on the main task.
"If a message comes to my phone, I won't look at it, I'll continue writing the weekly journal; if the clothes are done washing, I won't rush to hang them, I'll finish writing the journal first; if my pet sneezes, I'll click the pause button in the middle of the picture above, go boil some hot water, show some care, it won't take much time, otherwise it might take even more time[Doge]."
- Increased Control over Time
If you are given a whole day to do something versus half an hour, which do you think you have more control over?
Of course, it's the latter. Compared to a whole day, there are fewer variables within half an hour, and the possibility of unexpected situations arising is lower. It is also easier to maintain.
- Improves Mood
Because the goals are clear and the duration is not long, completing the plans is simple, and completing plans always improves one's mood. It's addictive, just like leveling up in a game.
In addition, Session also has statistical capabilities. I have been spending two sessions in the morning recently for reading, and it has brought good focus effects.
3#
I also tried using Session for time management at work, but I found that it is not suitable, at least not for my work. There are too many variables in work, such as when a tester suddenly comes to ask whether something is a bug or a feature. It's hard for us to say, "I'm using Session, come find me later." After a friendly conversation, I might even forget that I was using Session.
Therefore, for tools like Session, I think it is more suitable for helping us develop certain habits, such as reading and writing. When we find it difficult to focus, we can try to fragment our time, even if it's just 5 minutes. The key is to be able to maintain consistency.
As for time management for large tasks, I believe there is no specific answer because it involves factors such as experience, communication, and unexpected events. Instead, being able to maintain a mindset of always being ready for change may be the key.
Finally, do any of you have any insights on time management? Feel free to leave a comment and share~