Time management?

Question

I've just realised that I have a great problem with the way I manage my time. I'm always in a hurry and stressed because I'm always late. I think the problem is that I'm a bit of a perfectionist so I devote perhaps twice as much time as needed for the various tasks because I think I'm not doing them well enough. And I'm not just talking about my work-I work as a teacher for the first time actually-but about less serious matters as well. My appearance, for instance; I want everything to be perfect; head to toe. And I end up spending so much time that in the end I become reluctant to start getting ready for work because the whole thing is particularly tiring. Any advice as to how I can change that? Thanks!

Answer 1

I'm a bit of a perfectionist myself and I know how this can be exhausting. Sometimes the only thing that motivates me is deadlines themselves. I have to have my coffee in the morning to get me going, and I finally become alert and awake after a long shower. Sometimes I play my favorite songs to keep a happy and motivating tune in my head. This helps to prompt on ACTION. Action is the key, keep moving and don't overthink things, or you can become overwhelmed.

To keep up with deadlines, I play a game with myself. I see how fast I can count to 20, with each single action counting as one. Brush Teeth-1, Comb Hair-2, Dry Hair-3 etc,etc.. The object is to keep you moving without thinking about it. Being a perfectionist myself, I don't allow myself to be late to work or appointments. The ultimate dealine usually keeps me moving, as I know what has to be done at each minute to beat that deadline.

I know we all have to deal with this in our own way. You just have to find and develop some techniques(no matter how weird) to keep you going. Good Luck.

Answer 2

Maybe you have obsessive-compulsive disorder. Do you practice "rituals" when you are getting ready, like brushing your hair x number of times exactly, and then doing it again because you lost count? There are medications and techniques that might help you - see a qualified therapist that specializes in OCD.

If you're truly just a super perfectionist, try letting go of some little things to start. Turn the report in without proofreading it three times (just once.) Wear a belt that doesn't exactly match your shoes. Once you realize that the world will not come to a screeching halt because your eyeliner isn't 100% perfect, it will be easier to let go of some larger items by delegating them or just not doing them to death.

Good luck.