By Joe Lins
June 21, 2025

Managing our time can be a challenge for just about everyone. In today’s world, constant distractions and interruptions are the norm. For real estate agents, many of whom are independent contractors, the challenge is even greater. We’re in charge of our own schedules, which means we decide when to start the day, what to focus on, and when to call it quits. That flexibility can be empowering, but it also requires a lot of discipline.

The good news? A few simple practices can make a big difference. When you start to manage your time with intention, you’ll find yourself getting more done and feeling less stressed in the process. Here are a few practical tips to help you take control of your time and make it work for you, not against you.

Use a Calendar

Whether you prefer a digital calendar or an old-school paper planner, the key is to actually use it every day. Schedule everything: workouts, lunch breaks, prospecting, transactions, client follow-ups, and even time for social media. Before you begin, take a moment to write out everything you do (or should be doing) in a typical day. Don’t forget to block off time for the unexpected because it always shows up.

To-Do Lists

Start each day with a prioritized to-do list that aligns with your calendar. Rank your tasks by importance and urgency. Tools like the Eisenhower Matrix can be a huge help here. It’s a system that President Eisenhower developed to help him prioritize the high-stakes issues he faced, and it works just as well for everyday life. Also, pay attention to your energy levels throughout the day. Save high-focus tasks for the time of day when you’re at your best.

Eliminate Distractions

This one’s tough, but it’s crucial. Put your phone on Do Not Disturb when you need to focus. Avoid aimlessly browsing the internet, and only check email at scheduled times unless you’re waiting on something time-sensitive for a transaction. Try to tackle one task at a time and find a workspace where you can minimize interruptions. It might not always be possible, but even setting boundaries with those around you can help. According to a study by UC Irvine, it takes an average of 8 to 25 minutes to get back on track after an interruption!

Organize Your Workspace

A cluttered desk leads to a cluttered mind. Having a clean and organized workspace also eliminates distractions. Take the time to clear out papers you don’t need by shredding or recycling them. Not sure if you should keep something? Scan it and store it in a labeled folder on your computer. Speaking of which, clean up your email inbox too. File or delete messages so only the essentials remain front and center. Label everything clearly so you’re not wasting time searching for things later.

Create Templates

For any task you repeat regularly, create a checklist or step-by-step template. Whether it’s onboarding a new client or prepping for a listing presentation, templates keep you consistent and save you the mental energy of figuring it out from scratch each time. Just make sure your files are stored in an easy-to-find place with labels that actually make sense to you.

Time management doesn’t have to be perfect to be powerful. The goal isn’t to schedule every second of your life but to create enough structure that your time supports your goals instead of slipping away unnoticed. Start with one or two of these tips and build from there. Small, intentional changes can have a big impact, both on your business and your peace of mind.