Contributed by Jennifer Andrews, Catalogs.com Top 10 Guru

With our busy lives and hectic schedules, it’s easy to get behind in our daily tasks, to-do lists, work projects and plans.

Indeed, procrastination is the downfall of many a good intention to get ahead or the attempt to tackle a new task with vigour. Most delayed tasks however can be prevented if we learned how to stop wasting time and stay focused to complete planned tasks. Follow the top ten tips below on how to stop wasting time to keep you on top of your game!

10. Cut down on social media

Distractions such as checking your email, phone messages and even social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter can be huge time-wasters. Designate a specific time during the day when you can spend 20 minutes or so to attend to important calls and messages and then get back to your work.

9. Write out a schedule

Writing out a plan of attack is a great way to stay on task. The night before a busy day, write out a to-do list of things that you need to accomplish. Also, include what times you plan to tackle them and how long you will spend on them to stay on track.

8. Get support

Have a friend or family member check in with you at certain times during the day to encourage you to stay on track with your task schedule.

7. Location

Whether you work from home or in an office, distractions such as kids, phone calls and chatty co-workers can prove to be huge time-wasters. Designate a special room such as an office in your home to indicate work-times and let phone messages go to voice-mail.

6. Turn off the TV

Just like social media, the TV can be a major waste of time. You don’t always have to miss your favorite shows however. Consider folding laundry or doing a mini-workout such as push-ups and lunges during commercial breaks.

5. Sticky notes

Leave sticky notes around your house, in your purse and car that can help you stay focused and on track. Notes can be words of encouragement such as “Stay positive! Get back to work!” or a reminder of something you need to do such as get to the grocery store.

4. Plan ahead

Planning ahead can help you save a lot of time. For instance, packing a gym bag the night before a planned morning workout can save you time the next day instead of scrambling in the early morning.

3. Clump tasks together

Combining certain tasks can help you save a lot of time over the course of a day, week or month. For instance, instead of heading to the bank two or three times to pay bills, designate a particular day once or twice a month to pay all at one at the bank or online to save even more time.

Not sure what to put together? Note your deadlines and due dates on a planner or calendar and see what you can combine.

2. Just do it

Sometimes, we get so overwhelmed with the tasks we have to do that we end up doing nothing at all! Remember, every little thing counts so start small with something you know you can accomplish such as sweeping the floor or picking up groceries.

1. Ask for help

You don’t have to do everything by yourself! If you are working on a busy work project, have your family members help with cleaning the house and preparing meals so you can tackle your work in record time!