Time management is key to good health and well-being
Is there ever enough time in a single day?
Like the U2 titled song from 1987 “Oh Race Against Time,” each day is a constant effort to get as much done in 24 hours and still find time for sleep.
When we become overburdened, our health and well-being get pushed to the back burner. The trick isn’t needing more time, but rather being able to get the most out of time you do have without burning yourself out so you can maintain your health and well-being.
First, create a to-do list. If something needs to get done, write it down. The stress of carrying chores around in your head will only keep you awake at night and there is a good probability that you will forget them while focusing on other tasks.
Keeping a notebook handy is a great way to track and prioritize tasks so they get done, leaving more time for you and your bike ride after work. This is a great technique I personally use every week to efficiently manage projects. I am never stressed, always on time and never miss a workout. Try it.
Second, to save time, buy online. There isn’t much that can’t be bought online these days. From the mega retailers to small mom and pop shops, everyone will ship just about anything anywhere. Take advantage of this technology and stock up on vitamins, supplements and even groceries from your desktop. This will save you time and money from running around, dealing with crowds and sitting in traffic. Now you have ‘free’ time to go for a run or do a quick strength training workout.
Third, outsource if possible. There are many types of outsourcing options available to us today. From cleaners to gardeners and bookkeepers, the list keeps growing. When we’re looking to be most efficient with our time, we need to work smarter, not harder. If you’re still a little skeptical, consider how long it takes you to go grocery shopping, clean your house, or mow the lawn. Wouldn’t you rather spend that time catching up with a friend, walking on the beach? Not only will you enjoy some valuable relationship-building time, but you’ll both be doing a great deed for your bodies as well.
Finally, remember, it’s OK to say no. If you have too much on your plate already and you know you can’t get a task or project done, learn to say no. People would prefer to be told you can’t do it, rather than expecting something to be done only to find out that it’s either late or not done properly. Your time and well-being are just as valuable as theirs, value them as such. We are either our most valuable asset or our biggest liability. Which will you become?
Angie Ferguson is an exercise physiologist from Fort Myers, Florida. She is a USA Triathlon Advanced Level 2 coach, Ironman Certified coach, Slowtwitch Certified coach, USA Cycling coach and has a Specialty in Sports Nutrition certification. For more training tips, read her blog at www.triathlontrainingisfun.com or contact her at www.geared-up.biz.