
I’m constantly bombarded with things to get done and have five tips that really help me out and I’d thought I’d share them.
1. Always carry a notepad and pencil where ever you go. You can write down quick notes from a call, meeting and conversations. A notepad/pencil allows you to write down your tasks and quickly cross out the ones you’ve finished. The greatest thing about carrying around a notepad/pencil is you can always refer to it in times of crisis.
2. When writing down your tasks for that day, make sure your tasks are not so broad. Define your task a bit more, break it down in chunks. It’s easier to handle and accomplish.
Example:
Broad Task: Work on website
Defined Task: Correct grammar and pics on pages 1 and 2 of site
The defined task is easier to understand and doesn’t allow your mind to wander with other things that have to get done.
3. Make sure your desk is clean and there are no distractions around you when sitting at the computer. I prefer to say “A clean desk produces a productive mind.” I have caught myself getting distracted when I have things on my desk and end up moving away from the true task at hand.
4. When sorting through mail I have two piles “Trash” and “Attention.” The trick is once you have sorted through the mail quickly throw the trash pile away. When sorting through the mail get a permanent marker and label the envelope with a summary of the contents. For example: Verizon Fios Bill and date. This provides a quick view as opposed to opening up the contents of the envelope again.
5. Have the right software for your project. You will spend countless hours on a task if you don’t have the right software but with the right software it would have taken you minutes to accomplish the task.