Okay, let’s get real for a second. Who else feels like there are just NOT enough hours in the day? 🙋‍♀️ Between work, social life, fitness, and let’s not forget me time, it’s a miracle I haven’t turned into a walking espresso shot yet. But over the past year, I’ve discovered some little life hacks that have seriously changed the game for me. No, I’m not talking about those generic “wake up at 5 AM” tips—because honestly, who has the energy for that? 😴 Instead, I’ve found ways to work smarter, not harder, and I’m here to spill the tea.
First off, let’s talk about the myth of multitasking. I used to pride myself on being the queen of juggling a million things at once. Emails while eating lunch, scrolling Instagram while on a work call, you name it. But here’s the thing: multitasking is a lie. 🚫 Studies show that switching between tasks actually makes you less productive because your brain has to constantly reset. So now, I focus on one thing at a time. It sounds simple, but it’s been a game-changer. I set a timer for 25 minutes (hello, Pomodoro technique!) and just zone in. No distractions, no excuses. And guess what? I get way more done in those 25 minutes than I ever did trying to do five things at once.
Another hack I’ve embraced is batching similar tasks. Instead of checking my emails every five minutes (guilty as charged), I set specific times during the day to tackle them all at once. Same goes for errands, meal prepping, and even social media. It’s like giving your brain a break from constant decision-making. And trust me, your future self will thank you when you’re not scrambling to reply to an email at midnight.
Now, let’s talk about the power of saying NO. This one was tough for me because I’m a people-pleaser by nature. But overcommitting is a surefire way to burn out. I’ve started being more selective about what I say yes to, whether it’s social events, work projects, or even that group chat that’s always blowing up my phone. It’s not about being selfish—it’s about protecting your energy so you can show up as your best self.
Oh, and here’s a pro tip: delegate whenever possible. I used to think I had to do everything myself to get it done “right,” but that’s just a recipe for exhaustion. Whether it’s asking a colleague for help on a project or outsourcing chores like cleaning or grocery delivery, there’s no shame in sharing the load. In fact, it’s a sign of strength to know when to ask for support.
One of my favorite hacks? The “two-minute rule.” If a task takes less than two minutes, I do it immediately. Whether it’s replying to a quick text, putting away my laundry, or watering my plants, knocking out these little tasks right away keeps them from piling up and becoming overwhelming. It’s like a mini productivity win that sets the tone for the rest of the day.
And let’s not forget about the importance of downtime. I used to feel guilty for taking breaks, like I wasn’t being “productive” enough. But here’s the truth: rest is just as important as work. Whether it’s a 10-minute meditation, a walk around the block, or just zoning out with a good book, giving your brain a chance to recharge is essential for long-term efficiency.
Lastly, I’ve learned to embrace imperfection. Not every day is going to be a productivity masterpiece, and that’s okay. Some days, I’m a well-oiled machine. Other days, I’m a hot mess eating cereal for dinner. And you know what? Both are valid. The key is to keep showing up and doing your best, even if your best looks different from day to day.
So there you have it—my little bag of tricks for managing time without losing my sanity. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about finding what works for you and running with it. And remember, you’re not just managing your time—you’re managing your energy, your priorities, and your peace of mind. So go ahead, queen, take back your day. You’ve got this. 👑