- Multitask at your own risk! Most resources argue that multitasking is inefficient because it leaves you distracted. Sometimes your best work may come when you’re in the middle of something else. It’s not ideal but I certainly wouldn’t avoid multitasking all together.
- Schedule your social media time. It’s easy to get distracted on Facebook or Twitter. I find myself crawling for more tweets, especially if I’m looking at something in particular or a trending topic. Instead, you can schedule 5 or 10 minutes every other hour to check up on your social media profiles (if it’s necessary at all).
- Take notes – don’t let good ideas slip away. Maybe you utilize your Google Reader or have a specific email folder. Even an old-fashioned moleskin will do. At the end of the day, you can skim your notes and see how the good ones stick.
- Stop obsessing over things that don’t matter. This seems easier said than done but it is possible. Before you get too involved in a task, ask yourself if it’s really necessary at the moment. There are many time management tools that focus on the priority of each project.
- Limit your time on a specific task. If you’re stuck on something, move onto something to clear your mind. It’s easier to see what you’re doing wrong or what you need to do when you come back to it at a later time.
- Learn to say no. Whether it’s saying no to telemarketers, co-workers asking you favors, or clients who bug you, you need to learn to find the ‘no’ point that works for you.
- Take a break. Avoid spacing out on your computer and you’ll feel refreshed… which hopefully means that you’re ready to be more productive!
