The secret of productivity

Each person has its own work methods. Therefore, there’s not a magic recipe for everyone. In our case the secret for productivity is organization which also increases our motivation. Given its relevance we want to share with you some of the tips that work with us: 

•    Tell me how your desk is and I will tell how your computer is
Nowadays a huge part of our work is done in a digital device. However, offices seem to tell us something different. Choose what you really need to have in your desk. A messy workplace can make you lose twice as time and important documents. Besides, the way how our workplace looks like influences our motivation to work. What we see on our desk normally reflect the way how things are organized in our computer. In some cases, documents are everywhere and folders disorganized. Organize everything in such a way that everyone can find whatever they need. That way, if you have some problem that keeps you from going to work for a few days or even weeks your colleagues will be prepared to help you.

•    Is that really important?
One of our biggest allies is the definition of priorities! There are times when everything seems important, but in fact each task has its own specific relevance. Analise it accordingly to its deadline, the time it takes to get it done, the number people it requires and that value that it has to your team's goals.

•    Use your best memory
After defining priorities, it's easier to create and organize your to-do-list. Creating it's simple. You just need to write down every task you must do. If a colleague asks you something, write it down immediately so that you won’t forget. You can do it on a notebook, an excel or word. You can even use free online tools such as Trello. To organize it better mark each task with a different color. For example, use the red colour for urgent tasks and yellow for the ones you can leave for the next day. When you finish a task take it out from your list. This allows you to measure your productivity and evolution. It can be a great source of motivation! When you can’t finish what you have planned make sure your to-do-list has been properly organized. Also, each time something is undone at the end of the day, ask yourself: “do I really have to finish this today or can I wait for tomorrow to do it?”. Keep in mind that you have responsibilities, but you also have limits. Working exhausted can get you professional and personal problems.

•    Time is everything
In case you don’t have deadlines, define them. It doesn’t matter if you schedule them in your outlook, cell phone or if you use other method. What matters is that you do your tasks in the time defined. If you can, try to plan your more challenging tasks to the hours when you have more energy or start by doing the tasks that you don’t like as much and leave your favorite for the end. 

•    Together we are stronger
Anytime it makes sense, delegate, ask opinions and share your ideas. It’s just as important to help as it’s to ask for help.

•    Be prepared for what might come up
Although some people say best things in life happen unexpectedly, at work things are not exactly like that. Normally unexpected requests are urgent and we have short time to take care of them, causing us a lot of stress. But it doesn’t have to be like that! Be kind to yourself; you won’t always be able to do everything exactly how you have planned and that can be positive. It allows you to develop your ability to adapt and react to challenges. In case of stress, think about how it could be a much worse scenario than it is. Normally things are never as bad as they seem.

•    Make sure you have time to breath
Take some breaks. Even if it seems impossible, try to stretch or going to bathroom one time per hour. Both your mind and body will thank you!

•    Plan the next day
Before you leave the office look at your to-do-list and mark your tasks for the next day. That way when you return you will saved time and start the day with more clarity and focus. 

You can try these methods right now! The most important thing is to figure out what works best for you. There’s always more than one way to skin a cat.


By: Marketing
Smart Consulting