Working the same hours as everyone: How do you become more productive?

I know you wish there were more hours in the day. The truth, is everybody only has the same 24 hours to work with. So why is it that some people can get miles ahead during their work day while others seem to be spinning their wheels?

The key is to use the time you are given wiser. Are you doing all you can do to ensure you make the most out of your work day?

1. Give each task a time limit

How much time would you say that you spend each day checking your email? How much time do you spend proofreading that proposal? Studies show that only 17% of people are able to accurately estimate the passage of time. Which means that while you think you are spending 10 minutes each morning checking your email, chances are, it is probably closer to 45.

Write down a to do list for the day each morning, include in that you do list and allotted time frame for each task. This will not only allow you to see where your time is being spent but it will also ensure that you are using it effectively.

2. Go for a walk.

I know what you are thinking: how can not working help you become more productive? In fact, when we feel stressed or overworked, our bodies and brains tend to shut down. To keep a clear mind and remain focused on a task, it is important to take breaks to recoup and refresh our minds.

Plan and out your break time table for each day. Make that during that break, you will not encounter too many distractions that may extend your break time.

3. Follow the two-minute rule.

Often, in time management circles, you will hear talk of a two-minute rule. This rule is the threshold of the decision to do a task immediately or schedule it for an allotted time. If a task arises and will take no longer than two minutes to complete, it is more effective to do it immediately. However, if that task will require your attention for longer than two minutes, it is better to schedule it into your to do list.

The reasoning here is that for a small two-minute task, you will use up more time going back to complete it than you would if you finish it immediately.

4. Stop multitasking.

Multitasking is often touted as the be-all and end-all of productivity. Turns out, when you attempt to do more than one thing at once, you end up with two poorly done half completed projects. It kind of goes along with the old saying: “jack of all trades and master of none.”

When completing a project or a task, it is much more effective and congruent to productivity to give each task your 100% undivided attention and effort. This way, you save all of the in between time switching back and forth from project to project. You also avoid the stress involved in trying to keep both projects straight, and you are more readily available to produce your best work.

Do you practice any of these tips in your office? Do you find any of these helpful or useless in achieving your goal to become more productive?

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DISCLAIMER: This article expresses my own ideas and opinions. Any information I have shared are from sources that I believe to be reliable and accurate. I did not receive any financial compensation in writing this post, nor do I own any shares in any company I’ve mentioned. I encourage any reader to do their own diligent research first before making any investment decisions.