Every one of us occasionally gives in to the temptation of procrastination. That is why it is tempting to look at highly productive people as some sort of machine or people who come from different worlds. However, by studying how productive people work efficiently and overcome the challenges we all experience, such as procrastination or difficulty staying motivated and energized.
1. Set Priorities
Figure out what needs to be done and itemize the most pressing needs first. Some tasks will take a long time while others won’t take any time at all. This doesn’t mean you should choose to do the easy jobs first and leave the difficult ones for later, that is procrastination. Follow the list and do your work in order of priority. Also, ensure you don’t multitask because when you switch between tasks, you naturally create friction and break your concentration.
2. Overcome Procrastination
Overcome the urge to leave things until the next day. Instead, work steadily in short periods and break any overwhelming tasks down into achievable bits.
3. Be Organized
Your physical environment impacts your work, so take time to put your things in order and you’ll be better prepared to stay organized and productive in your professional life.
Control your workspace. It helps you be more productive when you don’t have to take so much time searching for things. This will save you so much time and also help you get more clarity and focus for your tasks.
4. Make Your Communications Clear And Concise
You will be marveled at how much time can be saved when you communicate clearly with your customers, or colleagues from the start. Make sure the person you are speaking, writing, or presenting to understands exactly what you are saying. Ask as many questions as you need to get the correct information and avoid misunderstandings. Setting out clearly defined expectations and accurate information will help you avoid time-consuming mistakes and keep your projects running smoothly.
5. Take A Break
Sometimes your brain simply needs a break. We all have our peak hours so identify yours and stay focused during those periods. Then when you get tired, you can just take a walk for a few minutes as a form of exercise. This is not about staying in shape or losing weight but it can help you to be more productive because it increases your alertness.
A friendly chat with a co-worker or a quick cup of coffee can also help clear your head and help you refocus. When you come back to your desk with a refreshed brain, you will be less anxious, more focused, and more capable of dealing with the job.
6. Delegate Tasks And Follow up
Investing some time in training your staff to do routine work will help free up your time significantly. This extra time will allow you to focus on bigger jobs or even take on new projects and challenges.
Following up on your team’s projects will make your work more efficient so make sure you follow up on them. However, your role is also very important.
7. Track Your Time to Identify Patterns
Tracking your time efficiently to identify what your tech habits are, from when you check your email to how often you check your favorite websites or social media can affect your work in a significant way.
By re-arranging some of these things, you may be able to get more work done.
8. Improve on Yourself
Learning to become more productive at work is an ongoing challenge that never ends. It is not about making endless lists or keeping an unrealistic schedule; it is about avoiding bad habits, asking the right questions, and finding a way of working that helps you meet your goals. Be open to challenges and don’t be too proud to ask questions about things you do not understand.
Note that you cannot become more productive overnight. But if you make little adjustments and practice some of the above habits, you will be well on your way to becoming more productive. All the best as you stay productive.
