by Virginia L. Allen

Created on: April 22, 2009

A page borrowed from fantasy; the idea that one can add an extra hour or two to one's day is beyond reality. The closest one will ever get to fulfilling such a fantasy, is by borrowing time from time. However, with all that has to get done on a daily basis, how does one get the most of their personal time?

Listed below are four tips for more effective personal time management;

* Determine All Time Stealer's.

The first step in solving any problem, is accepting that you have one. The same can be applied to effectively managing one's personal time. Therefore, once you've established that you have a time management problem, the next step involves determining what nonessential activities are your biggest time thieves.

* Make A Schedule.

As elementary as it may sound, effectively managing one's personal time begins with a realistic schedule. Although some dislike the idea of having every minute of their life controlled by a planner (they tend to live by the seat of their pants), enlisting the aid of a good schedule will actually bring much benefit to their busy lives.

Fortunately, making a schedule is much easier than one may think. It's a simple matter of prioritizing. In other words, make space for the big things (more important, or essential) first, then with the time remaining, schedule time for the little things (less important, or nonessential).

1.) Using a list, jot down the most important things you need to get done on daily basis, look them over and prioritize from the greatest to the least.

2.) Use a desk calendar, pocket planner, or portfolio, to help you keep tract.

* Stick To The Schedule.

Let's face it, sticking to a schedule is easier said than done. Nevertheless, it can be accomplished. Here are two suggestions:

1.) Set little goals along the way to make sure you stay on track. Ensure that your goals are both realistic and attainable.

2.) When making a schedule, instead of just scheduling things you must do, schedule things you enjoy doing. Thereby, giving you incentives to get the more important things done first. It's your way of rewarding yourself when you get things accomplished in an timely and orderly fashion.

* Get Organized.

Believe it or not, being neat and organized goes hand in hand with effectively managing your personal time. Keeping things neat and well organized saves you time when you are looking for your things.

The best way to achieve order is by:

1.) Putting things back in their designated place as soon as possible.

2.) Rather than waiting until things get out of control, preform cleaning and straighting up task regularly.

Effective personal time management has "helped many to find those few extra hours they so desperately need"-so states "Awake!" In addition, being in control of one's time reduces stress, brings peace of mind, and brings order where there once was once chaos.

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