Written by: Alejandra Beatriz Marqués Méndez, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
We live in a society that’s always “on”, always asking for more and rushing everywhere.
So you might be thinking how would I ever be able to control my time when there are so many things around me I cannot control.
There are many things in our daily lives that we cannot control, but our schedule should NOT be on that list.
You can absolutely take control over your time and learn how to own it, and in this article, you’ll find 5 things you need to start mastering and owning it.
1: Get rid of distractions
Studies show that on a 40-hour workweek, people are only productive on average 15 hours.
This is caused by ALL the distractions that we allow to come into our day, so the first thing you need to get back your time (and increase your productivity) is getting rid of your distractions.
2: Set boundaries
If you don’t respect your time, nobody else will. Setting boundaries and letting people know when you’re going to be available allow you to get your work done and flow more easily.
Think about all the times you said yes to something and then you felt drowning because of all the things you had to do. Being realistic about the things you can handle and communicating those expectations will reduce your stress levels.
3: Have your goals in mind
Having clarity on your vision and your goals is key to owning your time. The only way to do everything you want is by establishing your priorities, which will be determined by your goals.
4: Develop new habits
Improving your time management habits, creating routines that serve you and that make your life easier will not only make you more productive, but it will also increase your overall happiness.
5: Learn to recharge
“Rest is for lazy people” – NO!
Rest is needed, rest is for smart people who know that the number one priority should be themselves.
Recharging, managing our energy, and resting are things that MUST be on your agenda if you want to own your time and make the most out of it.
Now it’s your turn, pick at least one of these and commit to gaining back control over your time.
Alejandra Beatriz Marqués Méndez, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Alejandra Marqués Méndez is a former criminal law professor at university and project manager turned founder of Your Plan A. She is known for being entrepreneurs and businesses owner’s Productivity & Balance Mentor and is currently an Executive Contributor for a digital global magazine as a Time Management & Goal Achievement Mentor.
Since becoming a coach, she has been a frequent speaker on guiding women, especially female entrepreneurs, to leverage their time, be more productive, and have work-life balance with her signature T.I.M.E. method. She has also been featured in a large number of publications such as Medium, Authority Magazine, Thrive Global, Brainz Magazine, Morning Lazziness & more. Alejandra is a 2021 honoree of the CREA Global Awards for top entrepreneurs, influential leads, and innovators who have been recognized for their accomplishments in the areas of adaptability in business and mental health.
With over 8 years of experience as a professor at university, working in one of the biggest Law firms in Spain, in notaries, research centers, and more, having achieved 2 bachelor’s degrees (Business Management and Law), 2 masters, and several certifications, still have time to learn six languages, and have time for her loved ones, she has been fortunate to help women worldwide to create the life they desire by using their time as their most precious resource, creating more balance and achieving their goals with ease.
