Working hard doesn’t have to mean working long hours, but for many people, it does. Are you constantly working overtime to get daily tasks done? Are you going on vacation soon, but stressing over getting all your work done in time? We spend over half our lives working, and if you let the stress of your job control you, you’ll spend much more than half of your life being unhappy, or even unhealthy. One way to stay happy, healthy, and not working overtime is to get ahead of your work schedule by following these tips.
Plan
If you don’t have a planner, get one now. Maybe you use an electronic calendar, but it’s proven writing things down leads to better results. When you write down your daily tasks versus typing them into a calendar or to-do list, you increase memory retention. When you finish a task, physically mark it off your list to see the progress you’ve made throughout the day. When looking to get ahead, pre-planning can keep you from getting overwhelmed. Write down the tasks you want to complete each day to get ahead, and get motivated when tasks are crossed off.
Set Deadlines Get ahead of your work schedule
Deadlines go hand-in-hand with preplanning, however they’re a little more specific. If you can’t complete tasks one day, moving it to the next is not a problem. However, set strict deadlines for specific tasks that need to be completed before moving on to other things. If you want to finish a little earlier, set an approaching, achievable deadline. Choosing your three most important daily tasks can help you meet deadlines easily.
Delegate Tasks
If you’re working with a team, tasks can get done much more quickly, but proper delegation is key. Delegating allows you to manage your schedule better by assigning tasks to others. Instead of working on multiple tasks one after another, tasks can be completed simultaneously. It’s important to effectively delegate tasks, so work does not have to be re-done, setting your schedule back.
Stay Organized
Did you know, with a clean workspace, your focus is clearer and you’re more productive? It’s true. Staying organized keeps you in a better frame of mind. You’re less likely to be overwhelmed with clutter, so you’re less likely to be overwhelmed with work. Staying organized can also help you save time shuffling through papers or trying to find objects you need. get ahead of your work schedule
Take Breaks
People are not built to work for extended periods of time, even though, as we mentioned, we work more than half our lives. So, to combat getting burnt out, tired, or overwhelmed, work in intervals. For example, work with no distractions for 25 minutes then take a 5 minute mind-break. Your productivity will actually increase and you’ll have more time left over than before, believe it or not.
Keep Learning
You’re never too late, or too good at what you do, to not continue gaining knowledge in your field of expertise. Gaining more knowledge and experience can help you get ahead of tasks by getting better and more efficient at what you do. Once you’re ahead, you can even offer to help others on their tasks and teach them some of what you’ve learned. Maybe you could even begin delegating among each other.
Exercise & Eat Healthy
Maybe you don’t work at the gym, but exercise is still important! Those who exercise regularly have higher energy levels and therefore, higher productivity levels. Having an exercise routine will help you keep your feet from dragging throughout the day, and give you that extra pep in your step to get more done. Eating healthy goes hand-in-hand with exercise by giving you the proper nutrients to help you accomplish a lot more in a lot less time.
Learn More
Doing everything mentioned above will have you ahead of your work schedule in no time. It’s amazing the amount of time you can gain when living a proper lifestyle. For more information on who we are and what we do, check out our blog. We’re constantly sharing tips and tricks for businesses and employees to get ahead in the workspace.
