We all want to manage our time well.

But so often, things stand in the way.

As much as we plan, time block, batch tasks, etc. it can still seem like we’re in a losing battle for our time.

Time that we don’t get back.

There are three things that I think are vital that we get a handle on in order to make it easier to manage our time well.

These things aren’t necessarily easy to overcome. I still struggle with them myself sometimes. But as long as we are aware of them and continue to make small changes, we can start living a more present and productive life.

So let’s get started. Number one is…

Comparison is keeping us from managing our time well.

“Comparison is the thief of joy” – Theodore Roosevelt

It doesn’t take much time of scrolling through social media to start looking at other people’s life and start comparing it to ours. A lot of times it’s the normal reaction we have.

That’s why I’ve taken some big steps recently to try and curb the comparison trap.

I unfollow

In the past a “Fear of missing out” has kept me from doing this enough. But I’m slowly getting better at it.

I figure if I miss following that person, I can always re-follow them later on.

On Facebook, they don’t even know if you do this. You can stay “friends” with someone and unfollow them so their posts don’t show up in your newsfeed.

On other platforms, such as Instagram, they usually get a notification if you follow them.

Keeping these things in mind, the unfollow button can be a great tool for cutting down on comparisons.

I’m careful about what I consume

These days I’m trying to be much more careful about what I consume so I can stay positive and focused mentally.

That doesn’t mean I’m ignorant to current events, I still scan news headlines. But I actually have an app timer on my phone so it won’t let me spend more than 10 minutes in the news app.

The same goes for following Facebook pages, magazines, emails, and so many other things that fight for our attention on a minute-by-minute basis.

Our minds are a powerful tool – let’s be careful what we allow in it.

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” – Philippians 4:8 NIV

Perfectionism is keeping us from managing our time well.

Another huge thing I see that hold us back is perfectionism.

We’re afraid of something not being done perfectly and it can paralyze us.

This inaction and procrastination pushes us further behind, and before we know it we’re behind and frustrated.

So how do we beat this?

We have to be ok with things not being perfect.

As long as they’re done well and we do our best, we can move forward with confidence.

Because so often, our view of “perfection” is skewed by beautifully syled photos on Instagram and Pinterest that just don’t show real life.

I know this is easier said than done, friends, and it’s something I’m working on constantly.

Your house, your appearance, etc. does not have to be perfect.

Set realistic expectations for your season and do your best. That’s more than enough.

“She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future.” – Proverbs 31:25 NLT

Distractions are keeping us from managing our time well.

Another huge thing that holds us back is distractions.

In this information age we live in, distractions are everywhere and come at us from all directions, all the time.

So how do we get rid of at least some of the distractions?

Clear the Clutter

Clutter is a big source of distraction. So doing a declutter session around your house is a great start. Once you feel your surroundings are in order, it will be easier to stay focused.

Be Careful with Social Media

I love scrolling through Facebook as much as the next person, but I know I can spend far too much time on there if I’m not careful.

The biggest help for me has been using an app to restrict my time on social media apps. I have an android phone and the app is Digital Wellbeing. On Apple devices the app you can use is Screen time.

They work very similarly and are a great help in limiting social media time and distractions.

Don’t Allow App Notifications

I have my settings so that very few apps on my phone can push notifications through. This helps tremendously because my phone is not constantly going off. The only notifications I regularly receive are texts, phone calls, and the reminders/alarms I set for myself.

Comparisons, Perfectionism, and Distractions – these 3 things can destroy our days and keep us from managing our time well and focusing on what matters. But there are ways you can fight these, friends, and live a life full of purpose. I’m done letting them hold me back and I hope you are as well.