No matter how hard we work, it seems like there is never enough time (or energy) to get all the important work tasks done. Instead of working longer and harder, consider working more strategically – smarter, not harder. Here are some ways to do this:
1. Have a plan.
Just as every organization needs a business plan, an efficient employee needs a work plan – a well-thought-out schedule to guide and direct work activities. Plan your tasks over the days, weeks and months, but do it in advance.
2. Set goals.
As part of your work plan, you should set concrete and measurable goals. Goals should specify which tasks must be completed and a time frame for completing them. Instead of setting fixed deadlines that can lead to pressure and stress, take a specific period of time to achieve goals (for example, if an ideal date for completing a plan could be August 1, you would August as a “realistic” completion, and August 10 as your “final” deadline). Also take the time to reward yourself for achieving the goal.
3. Organize your workday.
Develop a consistent daily work schedule – and stick to it! If a typical work day consists of a number of writing assignments, meetings, and data processing, you should set aside specific times each day to complete each category of tasks. The regularity of a consistent schedule ensures that each category of work is completed and makes it less likely that tasks will be overlooked.
4. Delegate effectively.
Discover which tasks can be delegated and which require personal attention. The one who tries to do everything by himself not only gets overloaded and overworked, but does others no good by not allowing them to be challenged and grow by taking on important tasks.
5. Don't make the work harder than it actually is.
We are looking for a lot of time pressure ourselves. We set unrealistically high goals or standards for ourselves and feel we should be doing more. Remember that tasks are completed incrementally. Focusing on each step, rather than the entire project, can reduce feelings of being "overwhelmed."
