How to Increase Your Productivity and Get More Done with Less Effort

16.10.2024 20:15

Any normal person wants to work less, spend less effort, but still get more.

At first glance, this may seem impossible, like something out of a children's fairy tale. But if you think about it, you can actually see that it is possible.

For example, you can get another job where you will be paid more for the same amount of work performed.

Or you can improve your skills, after which you will do more complex work, but for the volume itself, for the hours worked, you will receive more.

As you can see, there are working ways to work less (or the same amount) and earn more. So, here are some tips on how to do it.

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Photo: Pixabay

Tidy up your workspace

This is obvious advice, but not everyone follows it. If your workspace is a complete mess, then finding anything becomes problematic.

Because of this, not only do you waste time looking for a basic pen or ruler, but your brain also has to switch between tasks, which means it will have to get back into the work mode again.

Order doesn't just apply to your physical desk, but if you work on a computer, your file system should be organized as well. You should have a clear folder structure, and each file should have its own place.

Work by priorities

First, figure out which of your tasks are really important and which are secondary.

See which tasks you can put off for later or not do at all. This way, you will direct all your energy to the tasks that really matter.

Work on one task at a time

There is a myth that one ancient Roman commander, Julius Caesar, could do several tasks at the same time.

However, modern science refutes the possibility of this; the human brain is capable of working effectively on only one task.

If a person starts playing multitasking, he will not be able to solve really important problems. Therefore, choose the first task from your task list and start doing it. And only after completing the first task, proceed to the second.

Group your tasks

Repetitive tasks are easier to complete. For example, if you need to create several tables in Excel, try not to interrupt this work by composing letters in Word. When you perform repetitive tasks, your brain will focus on them more easily, and you will expend less effort.

But don't take this rule to an absolute; sometimes it's also useful to switch to other types of tasks.

Eliminate distractions

Turn off all non-critical notifications on your phone, remove all pop-ups from your computer, tell your family, loved ones and friends not to call you during your working hours unless absolutely necessary. The more distractions you have, the harder it will be for you to focus on the task at hand and the longer it will take you to complete your work.

Take breaks

The Pomodoro technique will help you here. This technique involves working intensively for 25 minutes, then taking a 5-minute break.

But again, don't take this rule to an absolute; if it takes 35 minutes to complete a task and then you have another task waiting for you, then it's better to finish that task and only then take a break.

But just use the break for rest, and not for checking new messages on social networks.

Remember about your health

Healthy habits will not only help you live longer, but they will also help you stay in shape, allowing you to accomplish more tasks. Healthy habits include:

  • Proper nutrition.
  • Physical activity.
  • Enough sleep.

Remember that the best is the enemy of the good

Many people suffer from perfectionism. But in most cases, it means that you spend an unreasonable amount of time on your tasks.

It's usually enough to do it well rather than perfectly. When working on a task, set a time limit for when you should do the job and try not to exceed that time.

Ultimately, you'll be able to get more work done and your boss will be much happier with your results.

Previously I talked about how to get rid of the poor person's mindset or why the poor stay poor.

Vitaly Kisterny Author: Vitaly Kisterny Director


Content
  1. Tidy up your workspace
  2. Work by priorities
  3. Work on one task at a time
  4. Group your tasks
  5. Eliminate distractions
  6. Take breaks
  7. Remember about your health
  8. Remember that the best is the enemy of the good