How to Do More
Posted April 27th, 2015
We all would like to get more done each day. There never seems to be enough time. But there are things that we can do to better organize our time so that we can get more done. These are simple steps that can help to get a handle on all of things we have to do. Here are a few.
1. To-do lists
Recommending that you keep a to-do list is hardly an earth shattering revelation. But the key here is how you organize your list. You need to prioritize the things on your list. You can do this by numbering them from 1 to 3. The 1s are the things you need to do now; the 2s are the next most important things on the list; and the 3s are those longer-term things that you can spend time on after you take care of the 1s and 2s.
Here you need to exercise a little discipline. You have to do the 1s first. You cannot move on to the 2s until you have finished the 1’s. And you cannot make a 1 into a 2 just because you don’t feel like doing it today. No procrastinating.
Also, you should write your list down on a notepad. That way, you are able to reward yourself each time you complete a task by crossing off the task from your list. It may be a small thing, but it is definitely a good feeling when you are able to draw a line through the task.
2. Time yourself.
When you have a task to do, set a time limit, using previous experience as to how long it takes you to do the task. This will help to keep you focused.
3. Block out time periods for routine tasks.
Set aside a certain amount of time for emails and phone calls. Do it the same time every day. This again will help you focus and get the work done more quickly. This way you won’t be constantly interrupting your work to answer email and losing focus on your other tasks.
4. Avoid interruptions.
When you are working on a project, do your utmost to ensure you can focus exclusively on it. If something else comes up, and it is not an emergency, add it to your to-do list for later. This will allow you to get into more of a flow or rhythm to your work, to focus better, and to get more work done.
5. Clear the decks.
You may think a messy, cluttered desk is a sign of working hard, but it actually is hurting more than helping. Research has shown that a neat, organized desk not only helps you to get more done, it actually improves your mood as well.
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