On this episode, we have Franrey Saycon, Jon Limjap, Eladio Abquina, and Joshua Arvin Lat joining us to share their strategies for effective time management in the demanding world of IT.

Time management is a crucial skill for IT professionals who juggle multiple projects, deadlines, and tasks. In this episode, guests share strategies and tools for staying productive and balancing work, studies, and personal life. We’ll dive into how IT professionals can optimize their time, avoid burnout, and maintain focus in a fast-paced industry.

What time management strategies have worked best for you in both your academic and professional life? (Generalized)

Several strategies have proven effective. Time blocking or scheduling specific tasks into dedicated slots helps create structure and ensures important activities get attention. The Pomodoro Technique, with focused work intervals followed by short breaks, enhances concentration and prevents burnout. Prioritizing tasks based on urgency and importance, often using frameworks like the Eisenhower Matrix, ensures that critical items are tackled first. Finally, regularly reviewing and adjusting my schedule allows for flexibility and adaptation to changing priorities and unexpected demands in both academic and professional settings.

How do you prioritize tasks when you're facing multiple deadlines? (Generalized)

When facing multiple deadlines, I prioritize tasks based on a combination of factors. First, I assess the urgency and importance of each task. Urgent and important tasks get immediate attention. I also consider the impact of missing a deadline. High-impact tasks, even if not immediately urgent, are prioritized. Breaking down large tasks into smaller, more manageable steps helps to make the workload less overwhelming and allows for progress on multiple fronts simultaneously. Finally, I communicate with stakeholders about potential conflicts or the need for adjustments to deadlines if necessary.

What tools or apps do you use to stay organized and keep track of your work? (Generalized)

A variety of tools and apps can aid organization. Digital calendars are essential for scheduling and reminders. Task management apps like Todoist, Trello, or Asana help track tasks, deadlines, and progress. Note-taking apps such as Evernote or Notion are useful for organizing information and ideas. For managing files and documents, cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox are invaluable. The specific tools often depend on personal preference and the requirements of the academic or professional environment, but a combination of scheduling, task management, and note-taking tools is generally effective.

How do you deal with procrastination and stay motivated? (Generalized).

Dealing with procrastination involves several approaches. Breaking down large tasks into smaller, less daunting steps can make them feel more manageable and easier to start. Setting realistic goals and rewarding myself upon completion provides positive reinforcement. Identifying the root cause of procrastination, whether it's fear of failure or lack of clarity, helps in addressing the issue directly. To stay motivated, I focus on the purpose and value of the task, reminding myself of the long-term benefits. Creating a supportive environment and sometimes working alongside others can also boost motivation and accountability.