‘Time management’ refers to the managing of our time effectively so that we may be able to complete all the tasks and activities that we need to. It refers to the efficient use of time. This requires proper apportioning of our time according to the particular activities. In other words, we need to prioritize our activities and tasks so we may be able to complete our important tasks, and not waste time on useless or unnecessary activities. So we need to draw up a time table.
We can prioritize our activities best by setting our goals. Our goals are both in the short term and in the long term. We need to discover the best way in which we can reach these goals through proper utilization of the resources we have of time and energy. Discipline requires that we do the tasks we need to do and not waste time and energy on useless and wasteful activities. At the same time, we must have sufficient time for sleep and relaxation, and leisure and fun activities.
Time management can help us be punctual. Being on time is a very important quality that we must possess. When we are late we cannot make the most of the time available. We either cannot complete the task at hand or lag behind. It comes to us a demerit to be late. If we are late we also show ourselves in poor light. If we are late where it is a group that is involved, we lose out on the group activities and learnings. Being late also shows disrespect for our own as also the other person’s time. It is necessary so that we can be on time for every activity. For instance, if we need to catch the school bus at a fixed hour every day we need to wake up on time and get ready so that we can be at the school bus stop at the right time. Similarly, since school begins each day at the same time every day we need to be at school at the right time. Therefore, we need to have the discipline of waking up at the right time each morning.
Following a time table requires being disciplined and serious about our purpose. This requires clarity of mind and purpose, and an ability to focus our mind on the activity at hand. For this, we need to develop our mind’s strength by paying attention to the task at hand at any point in time. Practices such as meditation can help in this so that we become more productive.
