Managing your time
Module 3: Managing your time
Are you full of energy first thing in the morning or do you work more effectively in the afternoon or evening?
Most people have a sense of how their energy levels rise and fall throughout the day but keeping a record for a few days will give you a deeper understanding of your energy levels.
The easiest way to do this is to make a note of your energy level (between 0 and 100%) at one- or two-hourly intervals. At the end of the day you can see when your periods of high and low energy are. Energy levels can fluctuate throughout the week, depending on job shifts or your social life, so create an energy chart each day for a week.
Understanding your energy levels can be useful in helping you timetable your daily activities.
Slide the circle along the line. As you do this, information about energy levels will appear on the graph.
Normal energy level
At these times you will be able to tackle all but the most demanding tasks. Try setting a routine of working for 15 minutes, then taking a 5-minute break. Working in 15-minute chunks is less daunting than studying for 2 hours solid.
Low energy level
When your energy levels are low, timetable in activities that do not require too much concentration or thought, or take a break.
High energy level
A high energy level means that your concentration and retention are at their best. This is a good time to tackle difficult work such as problem solving or writing a tricky conclusion. Try to schedule key stakeholder meetings for when your energy levels are high.
Everyone's energy level highs and lows will be different and you should try, when possible, to work with your pattern. Your energy level is not, however, set in stone and it can be modified by changing your eating and exercise habits. For example, missing breakfast does not save time if your energy levels are too low for you to concentrate by mid-morning. Also, if your energy levels are low, taking a break and doing some exercise can bring them back up.
Think about how your energy levels change throughout the day and how you spend your time. Make a list of your thoughts in the space provided.
When are your periods of low and high energy?
What changes can you make to ensure that you work more effectively?
Do you need to move tasks around so that you are making the most of your differing energy levels throughout the day? Do you need to change your exercise or eating patterns to ensure that you work more effectively?