There is a saying “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” That's very true when it comes to workplace productivity. If you find yourself struggling to complete your daily tasks, it's time to prioritize. You'll be amazed at how much more you accomplish during the workday.
Make a List
Create a priority list before starting your workday. This list should include every office task you need to complete, in order of importance. Place time sensitive tasks at the top of the list. Don't create the list after you get to work. The goal is to create the list in advance. By doing so, you are focused and ready to work as soon as you enter the office.
Budget Your Time
If you have poor time management skills, your priority list is a meaningless piece of paper. You need an accountability system in place to ensure you are efficiently completing each task on your list. One way to hold yourself accountable is to create a time budget to show exactly how much time you will spend on each project. For instance, you may read and respond to email messages the first 30 minutes of your day. Once those 30 minutes are up, shut the email down and move on to the next task.
Remove Distractions
Remove every distraction that would cause you to waste time. Turn off or silence your cell phone until break time. Don't browse the Internet unless you are completing a project that requires you to do research. Stay off of Facebook, Twitter and other social media sites. Only chat and socialize with co-workers after your work is complete or during break time.
Refocusing
When you get to a dreaded task on your priority list, you may find yourself staring blankly at the computer screen or stacks of paperwork. If you stare too long, you end up wasting the day away without getting anything else done. To get past this mental fog, refocus your mind. Take a moment to psyche yourself into doing the task. Try doing meditation, relaxation or breathing exercises. It may help to play soothing music for a few minutes.
