Keep it simple – Keep your to-do lists and planning simple, and don’t waste time playing with new tools, etc. There are always going to be shiny programs that promise to make your day faster and more efficient. Stick with one, and learn to rely on it.
Focus your attention on one thing at a time – Cutting out multitasking leaves you to focus more intently on one task and finish it to completion, rather than having many tasks started and nothing finished.
Write things down – Nobody’s memory is perfect. If you don’t take notes and setup to-do lists for yourself you will end up wasting minutes of time trying to remember things that would have taken you seconds to write down.
Use productive shortcuts. – People who claim that there are no productive shortcuts in life have been brainwashed. There are productive shortcuts for almost everything you do. Finding and using them can save you a few minutes here and there on a daily basis. On your computer, learn the keyboard shortcuts for the programs you use [...]
Use magazine boxes for large envelopes, catalogs, and 3-ring binder dividers. Clear plastic boxes are good for extra rubber bands, staples, etc. Always label all containers.
Need more storage? If your desk doesn’t have a drawer for supplies, consider a rolling file that you can place under your desk when not needed. Get one with at least two supply drawers. You’ll get more supply storage and create a new surface space for project files, a printer, or your phone.
Use the phone if you think your email will turn into a game of several email strands. Often a 30-second phone call can cover the same items that would result in an exchange of 4-8 emails.
How to get a response when sending email. Click link to get all six tips.
How to have a productive meeting. Click to learn the five steps.
The next time you’re tempted to postpone doing something you know you should, ask yourself “What is the NEXT action I need to take?” Often we procrastinate because we’re overwhelmed, so the key is to reduce the size of the task – over and over and over — until you get it done!
