You can have a fixed timetable as you do now, but have a TODO list of "filler tasks" in case you finish early.
For the cases when you can't fit in your slot, you may want to practice your estimations.
For each task, write down the estimate you make and then the actual time it took to complete the task. Then analyze what is the cause of the difference. On the next step, try to anticipate the similar causes for the new tasks you estimate. In some time you will get better with estimating.
If the tasks are too long to fit into the slot, try breaking them down into smaller ones. It will also make estimates easier.
Another useful technique is timeboxing. If you know that you have one hour to complete a task, adjust quality to fit into allotted time. It is better to produce a crappy but complete report, than to produce a quarter of a brilliant but unfinished report.
Or, you can use GTD methodology, that will allow you to use a todo list and stay focused. It will require a rather intensive set-up stage, and maintenance, but it does the trick.
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Ilya. |