Are you stuck in the inextricable spiral of 9 to 5 job? Do you think people around you are able to make more out of less work? Does your work just pile up days after days? Do you also struggle to meet your deadline?
If the answer to the above questions is “YES”, then there are high chances that you lack time management and productivity skills. Below we will go through some simple, yet very important actionable steps that can help you be more productive at work.
Learn to say “NO”
Most people make mistakes when they overestimate their potential. They take up voluntary projects and tasks without giving heed to the fact that they already have their hands full. From a distance, it may seem right that you are taking initiatives and taking up tasks, at the same time, pleasing people by not saying ‘no.’ This can sometimes fall back on the person. When you overcommit, there is a higher probability that the output will be subpar, which will eventually disappoint people. Therefore, you must learn to say no people and focus better on the work you already have.
Create your own deadlines
We are aware that we often tend to procrastinate a lot. When we are given a project, we think of the latest possible time we can start the work. Instead, if you start imposing deadlines on your own self, you will be amazed to see the results.
If you abide to the deadline, you will note your progress with time and eventually be more productive. It also nudges you to complete work in time and not falling for the trap of thinking “it can be done later”
Use the Pomodoro Technique
The technique typically uses a timer for the user to keep track of time and break the time into several intervals (traditionally 25 minutes in length). Each of the intervals, separated by brief brakes (of typically 3-5 minutes).
It improves productivity by ruling out the scope of distractions and helping the practitioners focus better. Most of the users break down the total time into intervals, followed by a break. These sessions rotate regularly, and after some time, the user can take a more extended break (usually 30 minutes).
Be Proactive
Take up work that you think will help you in accelerating your career. Be proactive and not reactive. It means, do not let unnecessary calls and emails dictate your day. Being reactive will eat out the majority of your time of the day. Do remember to set aside the time you dedicate to the work that requires your reaction or response, but never let it hinder in the work you’re focused on the moment.
Remember the “Two Minute Rule”
Only if I could stress on it more, never put off a piece of work that can be dealt with in just two minutes or less. Write and send that email, make that call, update your colleagues but do not let these things pile up. If you have a pile of work on your desk pick up the work that takes exceptionally low time. If you complete right away, you save a great deal of time of coming back at it later. Or you will have to schedule the combined of those tasks for another time.
Make the best use of the “First Hour”
What you do with your first hour at work determines how your day is going to look like. Before you start with your day take some time out to think of things you can do to boost your productivity on a daily basis. Also, mull over what needs to be completed at the end of the day. Identify all the time thieves, look for critical tasks out of trivial many.
Eat the frog first
You don’t have to literally find a frog and then eat it. All you need to do is to pick up the most challenging task you have for the day and get that out of the way. In the first few hours, you are likely to be fresher in the head. If you keep that work for later in the day, it will take a share of your head (croak) and will not let you entirely focus on other things unless it is done (hence, the frog). Once you have done the lion’s share of your work as the first thing, other tasks will seem like a breeze you.
Turn off your notification
According to a study, most of the people get interrupted by their fellow colleagues turning up on their table almost every hour. Over the top of it “Digital Distraction” is a no joke. You should make it a point to turn off all your notifications from your personal emails and social networks. Try not to open your browser or touch your phone. Once you do all this, you will see a significant change in yourself towards being more productive.