5 Ways to Work Smarter not Harder

Work smarter, not harder.

We’ve all heard it, but how do we do it?!

In our time poor society people are pushing themselves to the limit in the attempt to fit as much as possible into their days – but working harder to increase your productivity is not the answer.

But what you may not realise is that working smarter not harder has benefits for your mental and physical health, family life, and relationships – not just your paid work!

So here are some effective ways to boost your productivity and overall wellbeing …

1. Establish a morning routine 

Set the tone for your day, by having a morning routine which includes a healthy breakfast, along with an activity such as meditation, journaling, yoga or other exercise.

In this way you set the stage for making the most of your time. It creates a structure, which gives you time to focus on your goals, to ultimately increase your productivity.

As the saying goes, ‘’Success is a few simple disciplines, practised every day; while failure is simply a few errors in judgment, repeated every day’’.2.

2. Quit multitasking 

Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but multitasking is ineffective! It’s impossible to place your full attention on one thing while multitasking, and you are much more likely to make mistake.

Instead, focus solely on one task at a time, and give it your full attention. Once you have completed this task, you can put it at the back of your mind and tick it off your to-do list. 

3. Cut down your to-do list 

It’s incredibly overwhelming and difficult to focus on what you have to get done, when your to-do list seems endless.

Try instead to have a smaller to-do list which is far less daunting and much more achievable. Make sure you are prioritising your most important tasks! 

4. Track your results 

This is crucial to increasing your work productivity. You can track your results by setting Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), as well as short-term and long-term goals.

SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Timely) goal-setting is a highly effective tool that provides clarity, focus and motivation. Knowing and measuring the correct KPIs will help you to achieve results faster!  

5. Manage stress 

Too much stress can hinder your productivity.

You might think that working smarter not harder means cramming as much as possible into your days, however this is counter-productive.

When was the last time you stopped – and did nothing?!

It is essential to take time out to relax, refresh and re-charge. Practise stress management techniques such as meditating, journaling, reading a book, getting a massage and exercising.

Taking time out helps you feel refreshed, and you’ll find you are more focused and productive when you do return to your work.  

Too many of us mistake being “busy” for being productive. Working smarter not harder involves taking time to pause, take stock, and focus on one thing at a time!