A major problem for many small business owners is having too much work and not enough time to complete it. Increasing productivity involves fine-tuning your time management skills, knowing where to place your focus and creating an environment best suited to your work life. Here are 5 ways to work smarter, not harder this new financial year by creating the best work environment to grow your business.
Our top tips:
1. Avoid Multi-tasking
The key to becoming a high-performance thinker is doing one thing at a time and allowing yourself to focus completely on one task. Multi-tasking has proven to increase stress and in turn, decrease productivity and reduce the quality of your work.
2. Manage your Inbox
Gaining control of your inbox can significantly boost your productivity. Try using the two-minute rule when you read your email – if you can respond in less than two minutes, take care of it now. Schedule a time in your calendar to take care of longer tasks. Also use the OHIO principle – only handle it once.
3. Schedule Appointments Strategically
Work around your strengths and weaknesses. If you know you do your best work first thing in the morning, schedule your meetings and appointments for the afternoon and get into a habit of getting things done early.
4. Unplug Regularly
Giving your brain regular breaks will help you focus longer when you return to work. This also includes taking regular holidays without a laptop or smartphone in order to relax your mind and reset your attention span rather than constantly checking your emails while you are away.
5. Plan Ahead
Prioritising tomorrow’s to-do list before the end of the day will keep your mind focused on things that need to be done and help you feel more organised in the morning, starting your workday right.
Master the concept of working smarter not harder to boost your productivity and make the most of your time at work. Here at the Quinn Group, our business accountants and lawyers can provide advice on a range of business matters. If you need help putting together a business plan, don’t hesitate to contact us on 02 9223 9166 or submit an online enquiry.
