Top 5 Tools I Use for Time Management (as a Full-Time Worker & Student)

 

Balancing a full-time job and studying for a Diploma on a distance learning is not easy — trust me! Time can feel like it’s slipping away if you’re not intentional about managing it. Over time, I’ve discovered some simple but powerful tools that help me stay organized, focused, and productive every single day.

Here are my Top 5 Time Management Tools that I use and recommend to anyone juggling a busy schedule:

1. Google Calendar – For Managing My Daily & Weekly Schedule

 Google Calendar is my digital brain. I use it to:

•  Block study hours after work
•  Schedule reminders for tests, deadlines, and meetings
•  Create recurring events (like revision time or grocery shopping)

It syncs across all my devices, so I’m never out of the loop.

"Tip: Color-code your tasks for work, school, and personal time to visually separate your priorities."

2. To-Do List (Mobile App or Paper) – For Daily Priorities

Whether I use a mobile app like Microsoft To Do or a paper planner, I always start my day by writing down 3–5 top tasks.

• I prioritize using the Eisenhower Matrix:
• Urgent & important: Do today
• Important but not urgent: Schedule it
• Not important: Eliminate or delegate

"Nothing beats the feeling of checking something off!"

3. Pomodoro Timer – For Deep Focus

The Pomodoro Technique (25 minutes work, 5 minutes rest) has changed the way I focus. I use a free timer like Pomofocus.io or set alarms on my phone.

• Working in short bursts helps me avoid burnout and stay consistent, especially when studying tough subjects like accounting.

4. Google Sheets Time Tracker – For Seeing Where My Time Goes.

I created a simple time tracker in Google Sheets (you can grab one from my store). It helps me log:

• Study hours
• Client work (if freelancing)
• Breaks and screen time

"This gives me a clear picture of how I’m spending my time and where I need to cut back."

5. Productivity Planner (Printable) – For Weekly Planning

Every Sunday, I sit down with my printable Weekly Productivity Planner to:

• Review goals
• Plan the week ahead
• Set intentions and focus areas

"I sell this planner as a digital download here on SavvyVAHub — and yes, I use it myself!"

Final Thoughts

You don’t need fancy or expensive tools to manage your time well. Start with free tools, build habits around them, and stay consistent. Whether you're a student, a full-time worker, or a side hustler like me — your time is your most valuable asset.

 Want to get started?

 Check out my Daily & Weekly Productivity Planner to start managing your time like a pro!