Do you find yourself constantly overestimating the time it takes to complete a small task or errand? Do you put unnecessary pressure on yourself to finish even the simplest of tasks? While it’s common to hear about people underestimating their time, it’s equally important to address the issue of overestimating time during the day.
In this article, we’ll explore some practical tips to help you better manage your time and tackle tasks more efficiently.
### Get Out of Your Head
One of the main reasons why people tend to overestimate the time needed for a small task is that they get too caught up in their thoughts. They focus on all the potential challenges and obstacles they might encounter, turning a simple task into a daunting one. The solution? Get out of your head. Recognize when you start overcomplicating things and remind yourself that it’s just a small task that needs to be done.
### Write Down the Task
Once you’ve shifted your mindset, try writing down the task in a clear and concise manner. Seeing the task written out can often make it seem more manageable. What initially felt like a time-consuming chore may suddenly appear much more achievable once it’s on paper.
### Set a Timer and Dive In
If you’re convinced that a task will take hours to complete, challenge yourself by setting a timer. There are two methods you can try. The first is to set a timer and work on the task until it’s done. When you finish, stop the timer and see how long it actually took you. You might be surprised by how quickly you can get things done. The second method is to set a timer for just ten minutes and focus solely on the task during that time. You’ll be amazed at how much progress you can make in a short burst of focused effort.
By implementing these strategies, you can learn to better estimate your time and approach tasks with a more realistic perspective. Remember, it’s all about breaking tasks down into manageable steps and staying focused on the task at hand.
What about you? Do you tend to overestimate the time needed for small tasks? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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Rashelle is a productivity coach and consultant based in New York City. She is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs, small business owners, and professionals streamline their daily routines for greater efficiency.