For those with busy schedules, there just isn’t enough time in the day. As soon as one task is completed, another steps in to take its place. This isn’t something to do with unproductivity or improper time management—it’s about efficiency.
Of course, it’s important to remember that each person has his or her own way of going about responsibilities—there is no singular, best approach. That said, there are many effective ways to match productivity methods and find what does and does not work for you.
Below, you’ll find a few tips designed to help you navigate the many pitfalls of more traditional time-saving advice. So if you’re not sure where to turn and convinced you’ve tried everything, continue on for some potential solutions.
1. Commit to less to get more done
The digital age has allowed modern business owners and managers to take more work home with them, extending the working week. This reduces the amount of time people are switched off and able to take much-needed breaks.
According to a recent article, being disciplined in achieving set goals comes down to embracing time off and knowing when to stop. Ultimately, productivity comes about through establishing habits and not through sheer force of will, as many seem inclined to believe.
2. Embrace technological task management
One thing that can help you and your business save money, time, and labor is technology, regardless of what kind of industry you’re in. Machines that are specifically engineered to solve a problem are generally good at what they do via automation.
For example, cleaning machines that simplify the process can be said to drastically reduce the need for action on behalf of the operator, and this leads to greater efficiency overall.
3. Make your regime more like routine
What’s better than having an effective working method? Having one that doesn’t feel like work and one that forms a major part of creating manageable workflow. It’s an exercise in tricking your mind into thinking things are much more doable at first glance, and this can help you power through.
4. Dedicate yourself to a task or delegate
The mentality that underpins the saying, “If you want something done right, you’ve got to do it yourself” brings many management professionals within reach of perfectionism, where delegation isn’t deemed as useful.
Ultimately, delegating is a necessary leadership skill, and when performed correctly, is one that can foster strong working relationships. If everyone under your watch is working efficiently in a structured environment, you can be guaranteed your to-do list will be complete.
5. Avoid multitasking when possible
If asked, most people would exhibit an overexaggerated sense of their ability when it comes to how well they can juggle different activities, and a recent study from Stanford has been able to confirm that multitasking actually reduces efficiency.
By contrast, the feeling of actually making progress turns out to be one of the greatest motivating factors associated with productivity. So, the next time you’re confronted with the option of doing two things at once, think twice.