Effective Time Management and the Pickle Jar Theory

The Pickle Jar Theory of effective time management is based on the fact that if you start by putting stones into a pickle jar, then pebbles and then sand you will fit more into the pickle jar then if you do it the other way around. By first doing the important tasks you will also be able to complete more tasks and do the things you want to do.

The Pickle Jar and the Pickle Jar Theory

Take a pickle jar and first fill it with sand, now try to put some pebbles in – if you do it this way you know that you are not going to be able to fit the pebbles in; but now try filling the jar with stones, once it is full add pebbles and lastly sand – doing it this way you find that although you thought the jar was full when it just contained the stones, there was actually still plenty of space for the pebbles and sand. Effective time management is similar to this pickle jar, if you start with the big, important tasks in your day, then work on smaller tasks and finally fill in small, unimportant tasks then you will find that you can fit in everything you need to do.

The Pickle Jar Theory means Prioritizing

The pickle jar theory of effective time management requires prioritizing – you need to know what your most important tasks are and what are just filler tasks that don’t really need to be done or are not as important. An example is if your work day consists of writing a major report, responding to emails and phone calls, and writing a draft email then you may begin your day by responding to emails and phone calls and find that you have no time left to write the report. If, however, you start the day with writing the report, you will not only get that done but also have time to write the draft email and respond to emails and phone calls.

The Pickle Jar Theory means Focusing on the Important Things

The pickle jar theory of effective time management means focusing on the important things. In order to get the important task done first you will need to minimize distractions. When you are doing the big, important tasks close your door, get your answering machine or secretary to take calls and focus on the task at hand. By doing this you will get the large tasks done quickly and will have more time for the smaller or less important tasks.

The Pickle Jar Theory Allows Room for Sand

In order to manage your time effectively you need to make room for rest and recreation. If you first of all focus on doing the things you will enjoy then you will not have time to do the important tasks, but if you first of all do the important tasks then you should still leave time for rest and relaxation. If you never make time to relax then you will soon wear out and not be as effective in completing your tasks. The pickle jar theory of effective time management therefore allows room for sand.

In conclusion, the pickle jar theory of effective time management states that by first of all focusing on the big, important tasks you need to complete that you will also have plenty of time left over to do other smaller, less important activities as well as the things that you enjoy. The pickle jar theory of time management is based on prioritizing your task list, focusing on the more important aspects and then still allowing room for rest and relaxation. Following this principle will ensure effective time management and the completion of all your tasks on time and with as little stress as possible.