How well do you work? What I mean is, what do you actually produce, and at what level of quality?
Your time management at work dictates both. Whether you're part of a large organization or you work for yourself, how you manage your time has a direct impact on what you do, how you do it and, just as importantly, how you feel about it.
When you're working, all you ever need to decide is what to do and how to do it. Maybe what to do isn't something you need to give a lot of thought to – someone else sets tasks for you. In this case, when will you do it and how well you do it become the issue.
Whatever your circumstances, how you handle three key issues will affect your quantity and quality of work.
Procrastination.
Everybody procrastinates. It's just that some people put things off more than others. What about you? What patterns do you typically follow? Overcoming procrastination is easy once you get into the habit of breaking tasks down. Got a report to write? Just work for 30 minutes on it. The point is, you get the ball rolling. Starting is often the hardest part, so break your tasks down. It's one of the most effective ways to improve the use of your time at work.
Distractions.
Closely linked to procrastination, workplace distractions are constant and everywhere. From websites to water-coolers, all sorts of things have the potential to limit efficiency and effectiveness. Do you get distracted easily? By what? How could you reduce the impact on your work? It all starts with awareness. Once you know what you're doing, you can do something about it. Solution? Keep a time log. There are all sorts available online. Or you can simply write down everything you do and record how long it takes during a typical working day. You'll be surprised at the results.
Interruptions.
It's a question of when, not if, you get interrupted. How do you handle them? Most interruptions are caused by other people wanting something from you. Here are two ways to approach the interruptions you have to deal with.
1. Like lists? Write down 5 things you could realistically do to limit interruptions. This could be anything from your body language to best times of the day to do work that needs full focus.
2. More of a talker? Do the same, but initiate a conversation with someone you respect and trust. Talking it through will help you think of practical solutions quicker than doing so alone.
'Eighty percent of success is showing up.' - Woody Allen
In this case, the greater part of your success will be achieved if you 'show up' and do something to improve your time management at work. Have that conversation, write those issues or keep that time log. Just do it, and your work will improve.
