Efficiency: Work smarter, not harder!
By: Neil Nepomuceno
Have you ever wondered why you feel like you’re exerting too much effort on several tasks, and you feel too drained afterwards? If so, then it’s time to incorporate some changes in how you approach your workday.
In sports, PER or the Player Efficiency Rating is crucial in determining…yup, you guessed it right, the player’s efficiency. We may not have this in our workplace but that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t keep your efficiency in check. Here are some simple tips to help you boost your performance at work.
1.) Do not wait for motivation to strike
TIP: “Start before you think you are ready.” Just show up and you’re halfway there; you won’t make progress unless you take that first step.
2.) Track your Time
“Time is Gold. “Cliché? Yes, but it remains true to this day. Productivity cannot be measured by quantity alone. Compared to the newbies at work, seasoned workers will take a shorter amount of time finishing a certain task but that comes with experience.
TIP: Observe how the more experienced professionals do it. Apply it, and challenge yourself by setting a faster pace in accomplishing certain tasks you’re more familiar with. Keep in mind that your quality of work should remain top-notch to become more efficient.
3.) Refrain from Multitasking
Imagine you’re a circus performer: Why juggle 10 balls when you can do more tricks with just 5? Multitasking is no different. Avoiding it is nearly impossible, but you can still do more quality work by knowing your limits and capabilities.
TIP: Rebuke procrastination and prioritize Special/urgent projects and tasks that require more energy and effort and do the minor ones once you’re over the major workload.
4.) Keep your ‘To-do list’ optimal
Don’t just routinely jot down your daily or upcoming tasks. Improve yourself by grouping those lists in an excel/spreadsheet or project management tools in order of priority so you can make quick and precise adjustments when necessary.
TIP: Embrace the convenience of technology by setting calendar reminders using your laptop, PC, or mobile devices. You may also create a digital ‘to-do list’ along with your spreadsheet file or project management tool that you can access anywhere.