2020 is here. Many of us make resolutions and then some of us just want to be more productive. And with graduation coming in the next couple of months, some of us want to get a jump on being more productive and getting ready to get that professional job after graduation. So, here are some tips and hacks to be more productive in 2020.
1. Stop Multitasking
Multitasking is not always a good thing. To be more productive, you don't have to do everything all at once. By focusing on one task, this can boost your productivity; and this will make you feel good because you finished a task on your list.
2. Tackle your most important work first.
Whenever you have a list of to do's and projects, whether that be for home/work always complete your most important task/project first. Have a strategy to tackle your workload. Make a check-list for that specific project. And complete this task early in the morning while your mind is still fresh. This will give you a better chance of completing it and being more productive throughout the day.
3. Learn keyboard shortcuts
Everyone uses apps on their phones/tablets every day. You can utilize these by learning all the shortcuts. You can Google all the keyboard shortcuts for your computers. This can help with all kinds of tasks, such as cut and paste, new folders, minimize windows, screenshots, etc.
4. Backup file
Whenever you have a task/project that you have to do on your computer, always have a thumb drive on hand. This is going to be a lifesaver. You never know when your computer is going to crash, and you have a deadline to get your project down. You can get these for your phone and tablet as well.
5. Learn to say "NO"
Taking on too many tasks can overwhelm you and cause you more stress. You can be more productive if you say no and know what your limit is. A good way to do that is to make some kind of template or email to politely turn someone down so the next time someone bugs you about something, you will be ready.
6. Focus on progress, Not perfection.
Work on maintaining your highest possible standard without getting bogged down on the chase of the illusion of perfection. Remember: Being good enough you can still be successful, just don't cut corners with yourself or your team.
7. Standing meetings
Research has shown that standing meetings are briefer and keep people on their toes literally. So if you are calling the shots try a standing meeting and see how it goes.
8. Instrumental Music
If you listen to music while you work, try only playing instrumental music. Playing music with lyrics can be distracting and make it hard to focus on the task at hand. So, find your favorite music from movies like Harry Potter, The Lord of the Rings, or make a classical music playlist.
9. Be Organized
One of the biggest reasons people become unproductive is they are not organized; they don't have meetings and projects written down. So having a calendar or planner can make your life easier. Plan out your whole week including meetings, projects, and emails to send, as well as any conference calls that need to be made.
10. Work Smarter
Just like the old saying goes; "Work Smarter, Not Harder." Start by blocking time. Set whatever time you need to start or complete your project, and do this one project at a time. Answer emails once a day. This will cut down on stress. Only use social media at night or when all work is done. This will help make sure you stay productive and not lose your momentum.
So, if you want to start off 2020 on a good note, no matter what your resolutions are or aren't, you can be a little more efficient, productive and diligent with your time. That can come in many forms: Things like making sure all of our techs work, having all the supplies we need to stay organized such as planners and calendars, cleaning out our inbox, having everything in site on our desks so we know where everything is. So whatever your goals that you want to achieve are in 2020, these tips can help you be more productive and even lessen your stress.
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