It’s pretty unfortunate that we often consider “working hard” to mean the same as “long workdays.” The U.S. is the most overworked developed nation in the world, with the majority of us working far more than 40 hours a week.
But there’s some truth to the saying “work smarter, not harder”: the right strategies can help you get the bulk of your tasks done while cutting back on the amount of time you spend in the office. Want to know the secrets to success when it comes to productivity? Here are the five skills you’ll need to master.
1. Set Goals
You knew this was coming, but we have to say it anyway: set better goals! If you want to be efficient at work—or at anything else in life—you need to know what direction you’re headed. There are countless strategies for setting goals, so play around with a handful until you find a method that works for you. Most of the time, SMART goals are a good entry point if you’re just starting to revamp your personal process.
2. Manage Your Distractions
Ever started a task only to find yourself distracted by pointless web surfing? From scrolling through social media to falling into a Wikipedia wormhole, distractions abound. Digital devices are a must in most workplaces, but that doesn’t mean you can’t be smart about using them. Instead, find ways to enhance your focus on your work devices. This might mean closing your browser while you work, or simply using a website blocker for better productivity.
3. Take More Breaks
Sure, it sounds counterintuitive. Why should you take breaks when you’re trying to be more efficient? But studies show that changing your focus can help refresh your mind, allowing you to bypass mental roadblocks and come back to projects with more energy. Go for a walk, engage in conversation with a friend or colleague, or do some yoga to score a better mental flow. Breaks like these can even help you boost your positivity as well!
4. Hack Your Routine
Are you an early bird, a night owl, or somewhere in between? Knowing when you’re most productive can be a great way to increase workplace efficiency. You can check out the most efficient workplace webinar software here. Once you understand what time of day works best for you, you can schedule your tasks according to your own mood and needs. This, in turn, means better productivity overall.
5. Prioritize Better
Organization is one of the most important skills in life, which is why knowing what tasks to do is just as important as knowing when to do them. Identifying your most important projects can help you prioritize your workday and even your long-term schedule. Consider choosing a Most Important Task (or two) each day, for example, or use the famous Eisenhower Matrix to decide which tasks are more critical than others.
Being more efficient at work doesn’t have to mean a 60-hour workweek! Instead, managing your tasks with care and being strategic about your schedule can help you make the most of your time in the office, leaving you free to do more of what you love.
Want more tips on productivity and efficiency? Be sure to check out our other posts for more insights!
