Ever wonder what the secret to time management is? Ever wonder how it is time seems to always run out? Is time management running you? What is the secret?

The secret is quite simple. So simple, in fact, that many will dismiss it as too simple. No need for getting lots of books and expensive calendar systems. The secret will set you free. Are you ready? Do you really want to know the secret to time management? Tired of all the insane questions?

The secret to time management is that it is a myth. You cannot manage time. Time moves no matter what you do. Time marches at a constant pace, relative to the observer. The seconds you have are the same length as everyone else. Oh wait? That’s the secret? That sucks.

Ok, now that you know the secret, what do you think should be done about it? Well, that’s the first half of the secret. The second half is that you must manage yourself in time. All the those time management books you see in the bookstore boil down to just that: you. It is not time, it is you. You manage you and that’s all. And???

Use a diary to track your activities and the time you spend on them. Want to know where your time goes in a day? Write down everything you do and the time you start and stopped. Working on a project and then get bugged by someone? Write down the distraction and the time. Do this every day and you will see where you are spending your time and how efficient you are.

Plan your day the night before. Write down what you need to get done, sorted by most important. Work that first activity until it is finished, then move to the next. At the end of the day, review your list and reorder. Stick to the plan.

Managing yourself in time is the best way to stay focused on your tasks and goals. Don’t get lost in all the details and take it one step at a time. Know the end-game, but don’t sweat all the steps. Chew that elephant one bite at a time, measure your steps, review your progress and stay to your plan.