This post in no way implies that hard work is not essential to success. Hard work accompanied by self-belief are the two pillars of success. But sometimes, we tend to overlook things that make us work twice the amount of time or put in double the effort, when the same task can be accomplished in half the time! That’s what we say when we mean ‘Work Smarter, Not Harder’. Here are some tips to help you do that.
Delegate delegate delegate
As human beings, we tend to take on as much as possible on our platter. Whether we are mothers who want to be there at every school event, take our child to every class and cook every meal from scratch or whether we are working professionals who want to do every task that needs to be done ourselves. Yes, it is amazing to be able to complete and accomplish everything you set out to do, but not when it leads to eventual burnout or you running around like a headless chicken! Learn to delegate tasks that are either too time-consuming, or that you don’t particularly enjoy, or that aren’t that important. This way, you will be able to focus better on the tasks that really matter. And be more in control of things.
The benefits of technology
Where you cannot delegate, make use of technology, Tech is now a part and parcel of our lives and while it might have its shortcomings and negative aspects, it definitely has a lot of benefits too. Virtual planners, social media planning apps, Amazon Alexa, Siri and Google Assistant, productivity tools and shortcuts on your devices and laptop, companies specialising in Analytical Testing Services – there is loads of technology available to help you plan, organise, schedule and remember every aspect of your day-to-day life.
Time Management
Time Management is key to working smart. Make a list of things that need to be completed that day or week, listing them in order of importance/ urgency. Prioritise your tasks so that the most essential ones get completed first. Keep all forms of distractions (such as your phone or browsing on social media) away when on the task and focus on one thing at a time instead of multi-tasking.
Have a routine
Routines can seem mundane, but having one gives you some sort of direction especially where your work is concerned. Routines help you compartmentalize your day and your work, so you know the time frames you have for your tasks. Above all, you can plan and schedule your day if you have a routine to follow.
If it can be done immediately, do it
Get tasks out of the way as soon as you can. If it’s something that can be done at that moment, get it over and done with instead of putting it in your ‘I’ll do it later’ mental checklist. Because ‘later’ there will be ten other such small tasks piled up. Plus you will be more tired – physically and mentally. And stressed as well, because your to-do list has only been increasing through the day.
