One of the secrets to a full working life, one that allows a real disconnect between work and personal time, is good productivity. Not only is it vital for doing quality work, but also to feel like a fulfilled person.
Here are some tips that can help you manage time and optimize productivity.
You are not a robot, try to avoid multitasking
Contemporary society is oversaturated with stimuli. It is quite normal to see people doing several activities simultaneously, such as watching a series, talking on the phone and browsing their social networks. However, despite the familiarity with this practice, the results are inefficient.
According to Earl K. Miller, multitasking is not an activity that human beings can perform. We believe that we can manage several tasks simultaneously, such as answering calls, answering emails, attending meetings during lunchtime, etc. However, if you focus on only one task at a time, you can complete all your tasks more efficiently.
Rest is key
The tendency to work long hours in order to finish tasks early is not the most appropriate methodology to progress. If you don’t take breaks, you may end up working slower or making more mistakes. It has been scientifically proven that taking breaks helps keep concentration and spirits at a good level.
Stretch your legs, have a coffee, chat with a partner for a few minutes. Allowing the mind to relax for a while is great for improving productivity.
Realistic goals
When there’s a heavy workload, it can be daunting to look at the long list of tasks to complete. Thinking that you can’t finish everything can generate frustration. The secret to more easily coping with all tasks is to break them down into small, achievable goals. This way, you can be aware of your progress and have the satisfaction of completing tasks as you go.
This strategy allows you to be more aware of the work that needs to be done, as well as what has been achieved so far. Also, it helps to deal with heavier or more tedious tasks more easily.
Tackle the biggest tasks when you are most alert
In some situations, the most complex projects may be put off for fear of not being able to deliver. When they are finally addressed, productivity can suffer due to burnout.
To complete important projects on schedule, it’s crucial to understand when and how you work best. There is no universal timetable that works for everyone. If you’re a morning person, it’s a good idea to tackle bigger tasks earlier in the workday, when attention and focus are greatest.
The “two-minute rule”
It is essential to take advantage of every moment of the day to be productive at work. One technique that can help is the “2-minute rule,” which involves immediately identifying and completing tasks that take two minutes or less. According to entrepreneur Steve Olenski, this method can save time.
It is important to be realistic and accept that not every day will be equally productive. You can focus your energy on small tasks and apply the two-minute rule to make the best possible use of your time. When finding the right strategy, it can be surprising what can be accomplished both in and out of work.
