Efficiency = doing the right things in the right way
We often confuse the word efficiency with the word productivity. But they are not the same thing. Productivity is about what you do and produce, while efficiency is when we achieve a desired result with the least possible resistance. So efficiency only focuses on how we do things.
And it sounds wonderful to achieve many goals while saving resources. But how do you get there? Unfortunately, there is no miracle solution, but there is a lot of concrete advice that will definitely help you - here are 9 tips!
- Tackle small tasks immediately
Don't let small things that don't require much time or effort sit around and grow into a mountain. Do it right away! Then you will hardly notice that you spent time on them. On the other hand, if you leave tasks lying around, you will definitely be negatively affected and you may feel stressed because a lot of things are not done.
- Matching the task with the right time of day
Since most of us typically have the most energy in the first hour at work, it's a good idea to schedule difficult and challenging tasks then. If the first hour doesn't work for you, think about when you are most productive during the day. Avoid doing routine tasks during this time - you can save them for another hour!
- Think of the US era
Add USA time (Unscheduled Time) to your calendar. If your days and your calendar are full of things that need to be done at that moment, you will find it difficult to deal with unforeseen events. USA time creates space for both the planned and the unexpected.
- Don't jump between emails, texts and work tasks
Do you feel like you have to immediately check what was pinging in your email or phone? This is a common time thief that affects your efficiency more than you might think. Instead, get into the habit of reading and acting on emails at set times. Turn off notifications and make sure you are not disturbed when you need to concentrate.
- Do one thing at a time
It goes without saying, but even though we know it's not the best thing to do a lot of things at once, we often do just that. Try to put all your focus and energy on what you are doing right now. Then move on to the next!
- Write down who your time thieves are
A chatty colleague, notifications popping up in every window, inefficient meetings, spam and emails that didn't necessarily need to reach you. Yes, time thieves come in many forms. Take a moment to write down what your time thieves are and what you can concretely do about them. There is always a solution!
- Take breaks
When you have a lot to do, it can feel wrong to take a break. After all, you need the time to work and get ready, you think. But in fact, small breaks of 5-15 minutes can work wonders. Going for a walk, talking to a friend, having a healthy snack, or getting some fresh air will make you more efficient in the end.
- Find out which digital tools are right for you.
Today, there are many systems and tools to make your life easier. Our brains are amazing, but if there is a lot to do, it can easily become too much. That's when digital tools can save you an incredible amount of time.
- Let the perfectionist rest
It's great to always want to do your best. But perfectionism can actually make you less effective - especially if you keep working on something that is already good.