Previously, we talked about how to get your best work done with 6 tried and tested time management strategies. In case you missed it, you can read the whole article here. If you don’t have a go-to time management system yet, you’re probably going to want to try the six strategies mentioned to see which one is a good fit for your work style. While you’re trying those approaches out, here are some quick wins to implement right away if you want to get started in improving your time management in the next 5 mins.
Get your workspace organized:
Remember your first day at the office? You were probably assigned to a clean desk with not much else but a desktop monitor, a keyboard, and a mouse. Ok, maybe a notepad and some pens as well. Over time, that desk will start to accumulate clutter – papers, books, sticky pads, cables, filing folders, etc. Visual clutter affects your productivity. Studies show that people who feel overwhelmed with “stuff” are more likely to procrastinate. Disorganized workspaces reduce concentration and focus and increase anxiety.
Quick win: Take 5 minutes to organize your desk. Throw away papers that have long served their purpose. Corral your pens into a mug or pen holder. Gather your books with bookends. Organize cables with cable ties or bulldog clips. Stack your notepads together. Keep your table-top free of anything except for your keyboard and mouse.
Turn OFF notifications
Studies show that the average employee switches between 10 – 25 apps in a day. Your phone apps all bid for your attention which makes it harder for you to achieve deep focus. When you can’t focus on your work – it takes longer to complete.
Quick win: While you could keep your phone on silent mode to avoid the constant distraction from a ringing or vibrating phone, it is best to just turn OFF your notifications or use the “Do Not Disturb” mode.
Work in batches
Each time you switch between tasks, your brain has to adjust and reset. Like when you find yourself having to gather your thoughts in order to proceed with a new task. Constantly switching slows you down in terms of productivity and increases your exhaustion factor.
Quick win: Group together similar tasks. You’ll spend less time context switching and more time streamlining your workflow.
Stop multitasking
As previously mentioned, switching between tasks slows you down and drains your mental resources. You might feel like you’re accomplishing more, but the multitasking myth has already been debunked. You’re spreading yourself too thin and setting yourself up for “decision fatigue.”
Quick win: Focus on one task at a time. This will get you in a “flow state”. You know this as getting “in the zone.” Feels good, right? You work more efficiently and accomplish more if you concentrate on doing one thing.
How about you? What are your productivity quick win tips? Share them with us in the comments. Remember to work smart and be a blessing to someone today. Stay safe and healthy!
Written by Jaie O. TheHelp