Don’t we all wish there were 48 hours in a day? It seems like a common desire, especially for those individuals with the habit of cramming some type of to-do into every last minute they have available, myself included. So, we buy pocket planners to write down our schedules, rely on our tablet computers or smartphones to remind us of where we need to be, and nod our heads when someone asks us to take on yet another project or assignment—whether we have the time for it or not. It’s a busy world, and time really does fly by when you’re running around too engaged to glance at the clock every now and then.
Time management is the only way in which we can somehow make consistent clock-time slow down a bit. Honestly, it’s all about how much you have on your plate, how organized you are with that plate, and what resources you have on your side to help you get things done a little more quickly and conveniently. I know what you’re thinking…you’ve already heard this spiel thousands of times. But, not only is time management necessary, it’s difficult to stick to a strict schedule when you’re used to never having one at all.
So, here are a few tips on how to be more productive in the workplace. Eventually, you’ll realize that after managing your time effectively, you’ll seem to have more hours in a day than you used to.
Tip #1: Realize What You Can Handle
You’re not Superman, so learn to say “no”. This is the hardest part for most people, simply because individuals want to prove themselves in the workplace as being able to handle tons of projects. Ever heard of diminishing marginal value? Up to a certain point, for each additional assignment you obtain, the less ‘value’ you will add to that assignment. Basically, everyone has a capping point, and you need to realize where that is. At that point, you will be able to produce quality work with the maximum amount of assignments that you can handle.
Tip #2: Stay Organized
Now that you have your workload managed, it’s time to organize your life. Clean up that inbox, compile your deadlines, and plan out your day in accordance to what needs to be done first. If something is of high-priority, whether it be answering emails or setting aside time to yourself for thinking, make the time. Also, don’t lose track of small, miscellaneous tasks; they’ll build up over time. Most importantly, stick to your schedule—without it, you’ll easily start procrastinating.
Tip #3: Surround Yourself With Resources That Make Your Life Easier
Whether it be products or services, companies make a living off of developing ways to make your life easier—so use them! Whether it be file sharing, business card scanners, or even the latest and greatest software releases, you’re bound to be more productive with resources that can help you manage your time wisely. This doesn’t go to show that everything that’s newly released is the best option, so take some time to find out what works, and doesn’t work, for you.