Career Development Program · Week 4
Time Management
You've set a SMART goal and built a backplan. Now let's make sure you have the time to follow it.
Download the workbook (PDF)Time management isn't about being busy. It's about choosing on purpose how you spend your time so you stay on track toward your goals. It's also a skill employers look for in every job.
This week you'll pick your most important task, schedule it, plan around what might get in the way, and map out your week.
This week you’ll learn
- How to prioritize what matters most
- How to schedule your week so it fits your real life
- How to limit distractions and keep going on tough days
This week’s lessons
Read each short lesson, then answer the questions in the worksheet below.
How to manage your time
Good time management means the important things get done first, and you have a plan for what could get in the way.
Four steps
- Prioritize. Do what's urgent or due soonest first. Ask for help with things that don't have to be you.
- Post your deadlines where you'll see them often, like your phone lock screen or the fridge.
- Get ready ahead of time. Have what you need (documents, logins, directions) before you start.
- Limit distractions. Silence notifications and set a timer for focused work.
Key takeaways
- Prioritize by urgency and importance.
- Set realistic deadlines.
- Review your to-do list daily and weekly.
- Do the hardest task first.
- Say "no" when you already have too much.
- Use apps (calendar, reminders) to stay organized.
Where does the time go?
For one day, notice how you spend your time. Most people find an hour or more lost to scrolling, TV, or waiting.
Use it in your job search
- Resume: use time management skills as keywords, like "met daily prep deadlines."
- Cover letter: give an example of juggling tasks well.
- Interview: talk about a time you met a deadline and how you did it.
Prioritization · Scheduling · Communication · Decision making · Goal setting · Multi-tasking · Problem solving
My weekly planning calendar
Block out work, family time and appointments first. Then add your backplan tasks where they fit.
Worksheet: Managing my time
These questions match the Week 4 worksheet in the workbook. You can type your answers into the PDF, write them by hand, or submit this form. Your coach sees what you submit online.
Download the workbook (PDF)* Required
Thank you!
Thank you. Your Week 4 Time Management work is in. Come back to the CDP page next week for Resumes.