Cyberwise: How Can I Manage My Time Better?

I have a difficult time managing my schedule and tasks. What are some really good online tools to do this?

–Anonymous
Via E-mail

There are so many great tools, it’s difficult to narrow down. In the past, I have recommended the standbys–Apple’s iCal, accounts/ServiceLogin?service=cl&passive=1209600&continue=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2Fcalendar%2Frender&followup=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2Fcalendar%2Frender" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Google Calendar, and Microsoft Outlook. We’ve also looked at Remember the Milk, which is also available for the iPhone; it’s simply one of the best tools out there. Keep in mind, too, that some new apps will integrate rather nicely with your standbys.

However, in the last few weeks, I have discovered two good free ones: Todo.ly and Task.fm. Todo.ly (in beta at press time), features a clean interface and lets you

create and arrange tasks by projects. Don’t let the simple appearance fool you, though; it’s a pretty powerful application. A tool that’s in beta gives you the opportunity to test it out and put in your own two cents to help the developers create a product that’s right for you.

Task.fm is another nifty application. A free, ad-supported account gives you e-mail reminders, up to five SMS/phone call reminders, and lets you create reminders via Twitter. The Pro account ($3.99/month) is ad-free and lets you create reminders via text message. Task.fm gives you the ability to create reminders using your voice, send reminders to groups, and create unlimited to-do lists.

But if you want to take a break from the list madness, check out The Power of Slow: 101 Ways to Save Time in Our 24/7 World by Christine Louise Hohlbaum (St. Martin’s Press; $24.99), which offers fresh perspectives on time and use that could translate into greater efficiency and less stress.

Sonya A. Donaldson is an editor-at-large for Black Enterprise.