I spend most of my time staying busy.  Whether it be focused on work, learning a new craft, home projects, cooking…. I’m always up to something.

In a recent conversation, I realized keeping my plate constantly full is a good way to keep motivated.  When I have idle time, I have a tendency to get lazy, or have trouble getting motivated.  When I’ve got a laundry list, I take the challenge to conquer everything, and many times, gets me motivated to keep on truckin’ once the list is through.

Here are some helpful time managers to keep you on task.

Google Calendar:
Not only does it allow you to create multiple color coded calendars (all on one page), but it syncs to the iPhone!  That is, if you’re iphone inclined…. if not, and assuming you’ve got a web-capable cell phone, the new mobile features to google are fabulous.

Make a list:
Using a handy “notepad”, whether a physical piece of paper (I like jumbo post-its) or opening a document on my computer and making a list.  There’s something nice about being able to cross off tasks.  This also gives you an opportunity to break down big tasks into smaller more manageable tasks.

Project Management Software:
For really big projects, where you have to worry about lead time, or several moving parts, I like to use project management software.  This gives you the chance to map out the entirety of the project, get a good timeline, and manage expectations (even if they’re your own).  GnattProject is a great (and free) program.

Ideally, you’ll use each of these time management and planning tools in conjunction with one another to keep the momentum and finish tasks as efficiently as possible.

Now if you’ll excuse me, I have a schedule to plan, a project to manage, and a list to tackle.