09/15/2022
We can’t always choose how to spend our time, especially when responsibilities like work can’t be negotiated. However, time management techniques can help you understand and organize what you do with the time within your control so you can do more of what fulfills you.
The Covey Time Management Matrix breaks down tasks into what’s important (meaningful/beneficial) versus what’s urgent (time sensitive/has a deadline) in 4 quadrants. How to do it:
1. List all the tasks, big and small, that you do in a day, including going to class, cooking meals, scrolling on your phone, working out, etc.
2. Write down any deadlines or scheduled times.
3. Try to fit each task into one of the 4 quadrants.
Q1: Urgent and important - Upcoming exams, some doctor’s appointments, etc. (Not always enjoyable, but need to be managed/prioritized)
Q2: Not urgent but still important - Exercise, time with friends/family, planning for your future (Focus on this section to help you meet long-term goals)
Q3: Urgent but not important - Phone notifications, interruptions, some requests from others (Setting boundaries can help minimize these)
Q4: Not urgent and not important - Mindless scrolling, distracting activities that aren’t fulfilling, things you do to procrastinate (Limit these when possible)
What do you think about this time management matrix? Let us know below!
