No matter your job or industry, we all want to learn how to be effective at work and achieve our professional goals. Working smarter and not harder involves better managing your time, knowing what needs to get done and when, and utilising tools that will keep you on track. Start with these simple tips and watch your productivity soar.
Focus on high-impact tasks
Chances are, you have a long-running to-do list. Instead of trying to accomplish everything or get to inbox zero, focus on tasks that will have the greatest long-term impact. Work smarter by concentrating on the things that are most critical to your job performance and the company’s success.
Say goodbye to multitasking
Having too much on the go can make it seem like you’re accomplishing a lot, but it also spreads you too thin. Your cerebral cortex only pays attention to one thing at a time. Multitasking strains your cortex as it tries to focus your energy and attention on too many different things. Understand that you’ll work more efficiently when you focus on one task at a time.
Take more breaks
Taking breaks is one of my favourite ways to work smarter. Without real breaks, our brains get tired, and we get distracted. Once you’ve given up multitasking, try taking a break between each task you focus on. You could try something like the Pomodoro Technique or Flowtime to make sure you’re taking breaks—and use any of these science-backed ways to take better breaks to make sure you’re making the most of them.
Change your self-talk
Instead of saying, “I have too much to do today!” and “I’m so stressed out right now!” say, “These are the two things I need to focus on today.” A simple shift in perspective can do wonders for your motivation and energy levels.
Keep your to-do list short
Try to focus on three to five important and challenging tasks each day. Consider making these your most important tasks that can make you feel highly productive when you complete them. Focus on these tasks one at a time before moving on to less important tasks to better prioritise your work.
Don’t wait for motivation
One of the simplest methods to work smarter is explained by a phenomenon called the Zeigarnik Effect. The Zeigarnik Effect states that not completing a task creates mental tension, which keeps it top of mind. The only thing that will ease this tension is to complete the task. Starting a project is usually the hardest part. If you can start focusing on a project for a few minutes, the brain’s desire to complete it should then take over. So next time you feel like putting off a task, just take that first step, and the rest will follow.
Look after your greatest resource
You are your own greatest resource, so taking care of your body and mind is key when you want to work smarter, not harder. If you do not get enough sleep, exercise, and relaxation, you find that you become less and less productive. You begin to work longer and longer hours, which is the exact opposite of what you want. Instead, start your day with a good breakfast and a small workout to give yourself a great boost.
The key to greater productivity is to work smarter, not harder. Working smarter saves precious time and energy for the things that really matter—your life goals, your personal growth, your health, and your relationships. Use the tips above to start getting more done in less time.
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