Master Productivity
Here are 10 Top Productivity Hacks everyone needs to know!
I am often asked for my top time management tips and when I work as a virtual assistant, maximising productivity is not just my goal; it's a necessity. In this blog post, I’ll share my top productivity hacks that can positively change the way you work – or at the very least, give you some time back. Backed by research and industry trends, these tips will not only boost your efficiency but also keep you ahead of where you need to be.
You might wonder, "Why share these tips? Aren't you giving away your trade secrets?" My response is twofold: 1) We're part of a community where sharing benefits everyone, and 2) If this is what I'm happy to share for free, imagine the additional value we can create together!
“Focus on being productive instead of busy.”
-Tim Ferriss
1) Harness the Power of Task Management Tools:
Research shows that businesses using task management tools are 30% more likely to meet deadlines and enhance work quality. Platforms like Asana, Trello, Todoist, and Toggle help keep your to-do lists organised and foster seamless collaboration with your team and/or clients. Try a few of the free versions and see what works for you – it might mean some initial time spent on trying them out but will save you in the long run
2) Adopt the Pomodoro Technique:
In a recent productivity survey, the Pomodoro Technique demonstrated a 25% increase in focus and productivity. I love this one and talk about it a lot, so if you aren’t sure of it: Break your work into 25-minute intervals followed by short breaks to maintain high energy levels throughout the day.
3) Embrace Automation
Stay ahead by automating repetitive tasks or implementing email tools to help schedule your work. By automating these routine processes, you not only minimise the risk of oversight but also create a streamlined workflow, ensuring that your energy is directed towards tasks that truly require your unique skills and attention. It's our secret to working smarter, not harder,
4) Create a Distraction-Free Workspace:
Leading workplace psychologists suggest that a clutter-free and organised workspace can lead to a 20% increase in overall productivity. We have really changed our way of working in the past 4 years and our workspace/home space/play space isn’t always clear – the boundaries are somewhat cloudy! Designate a specific area for work, free from distractions, to create a conducive environment for focused tasks.
5) Embrace Virtual Collaboration Tools:
Remote work has led to a surge in virtual collaboration tools. Incorporating platforms like Slack or Microsoft Teams has been shown to improve team communication by 40%, fostering a collaborative environment even in a virtual setting. If you work with a team regularly these tools will save time in the long run – they just need a bit of a ‘how do we work with which one’ chat and then you see the benefits.
“You don’t get paid for the hour, you get paid for the value you bring to the hour.”
– Jim Rohn
6) Practice Mindful Breaks:
Recent neuroscientific research suggests that taking mindful breaks during work hours enhances cognitive function and creativity. Incorporate short walks or mindfulness exercises into your routine to recharge your brain and maintain peak performance.
7) Set Clear Goals and Deadlines:
A study by the Harvard Business Review found that individuals who set clear goals and deadlines are 30% more likely to achieve them. It sounds obvious, but you would be surprised at the number of people who just work away at tasks without the end goal in mind. Define your short-term and long-term goals to stay motivated and organised.
8) Learn Shortcuts to Make your Life Easier:
Efficiency is key. Research indicates that mastering keyboard shortcuts can save up to 8 days per year in work hours. Invest time in learning shortcuts for your most-used applications to streamline your workflow. Some of my favourite and go-to’s for Windows users are:
o Ctrl & F – Search on the page (this works in any Windows programme)
o Windows logo key & M – Minimise all windows (great if you have loads open at once!)
o Ctrl & A – Select all content in focus
o Ctrl & S – Save regularly if you don’t like Autosave! (We have all lost too much work in the past to not know this one!)
My biggest win from shortcuts has been installing the WhatsApp ‘App’ on my desktop! It literally changed my way of working. It saves me so much time trying to type on that small phone keyboard and means I can use it for work purposes properly.
9) Just do something!
Sometimes, the biggest challenge to an overloaded work schedule is you just don’t know where to start. It happens to me sometimes, but I give myself a talking-to quite often! If you really are in a not sure where to start mode and can’t even work on a plan, do something! Even if it’s a small task, that might lead to another which then leads to another ….
10) Don’t do it all on your own!
You knew I had to say this one didn’t you? I help businesses to save time and enable them to focus on areas to grow their businesses. If you think you could do with some help, get in touch. You don’t need to commit to anything, but I would love to chat about what’s possible.
“If you spend too much time thinking about a thing, you'll never get it done.”
- Bruce Lee
Remember: the key to unlocking your own potential lies in the intentional use of your most precious resource – time. Whether you're streamlining your tasks, embracing effective tools, or simply learning to breathe amid the chaos, each small change contributes to a more balanced, fulfilling professional life.
Go forth armed with these tips, and may your days be filled with productivity, accomplishment, and a touch of that much-needed relaxation.
Here's to making every minute count!
