Maximize Your Productivity: Three Essential Tips for Leaders
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Chapter 1: Introduction
This article marks the 16th installment of The Monday Morning Manager Series, aimed at assisting new leaders. For further insights, explore the entire series and our archives.
As a leader, achieving productivity is crucial for success. However, you may find it challenging to carve out the time and energy needed to complete tasks effectively.
New leaders often struggle to develop their organizational skills and productivity strategies, a challenge that many seasoned leaders also encounter. Throughout my years of experience in helping individuals set workplace goals, a common issue has been managing time and tasks without succumbing to stress.
One useful strategy is to limit your email checks to three times a day: once upon arriving at work, once after lunch, and once before heading home. This approach prevents distractions that can hinder your focus on more valuable tasks.
Mastering the art of time management to complete essential tasks efficiently takes practice, but it is achievable. If you're feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about where to begin, consider these three productivity tips. Implementing even one can significantly enhance your productivity. If tackling all three at once feels daunting, start with one and gradually incorporate the others.
Section 1.1: Productivity Tip One: Tackle the Toughest Task First
The concept of "eating that frog," popularized by Brian Tracy in his book, Eat That Frog, suggests that you should address your most challenging tasks first thing in the morning.
Don’t worry; there's no actual frog involved! The idea is to complete the tasks you typically avoid—the ones that seem overwhelming. Tracy encourages taking charge of these responsibilities early in the day so that the rest of your tasks will feel manageable by comparison.
In my experience, we often exaggerate the complexity of tasks in our minds, making them seem far more daunting than they actually are. So, start your day by "eating a frog"!
Section 1.2: Productivity Tip Two: The Four D's
When you're faced with a lengthy to-do list and an influx of emails, it can be tough to prioritize effectively. The Four D's method provides a framework for managing your tasks.
- Delete: Eliminate any tasks that don't contribute value or waste your time. For instance, unsubscribe from email newsletters you never read, skip unnecessary meetings, and decline non-essential committee requests.
- Delegate: Assign tasks that need completion but don't require your direct involvement to someone else on your team.
- Do: Complete any task that takes less than 10 minutes immediately. This can include quick emails, phone calls, or brief responses.
- Defer: For essential tasks that you must handle personally and that will take longer than 10 minutes, schedule them for later in your calendar.
Using your calendar to track tasks is an effective way to visualize your workload and prioritize as new responsibilities arise. The Four D's method is a well-recognized productivity technique, originating from The Power of Focus by Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen, and Les Hewitt.
Chapter 2: Productivity Tip Three: Set Three Daily Goals
This principle comes from Dr. Benjamin Hardy's Gold AMP group, which I have followed for years. Hardy suggests limiting yourself to three primary goals each day. This doesn't mean you won't accomplish other tasks, but achieving these three will mark your day as successful.
Each morning, decide which three tasks will propel your projects forward and focus on completing those. Ideally, these daily goals should align with your broader weekly and monthly objectives, though flexibility is key.
For instance, if you're dealing with a dental emergency, your main task might simply be to book a dentist appointment to allow you to concentrate on work.
In summary, taking a few moments each morning to plan your day and concentrating on one task at a time can lead to increased productivity and reduced stress.
Bonus Tip: Limit your email checks to three times daily: at the start of your day, after lunch, and before leaving work. This strategy helps you remain focused on meaningful tasks rather than getting lost in your inbox.
These three tips are just a starting point; if you find them helpful, continue using them. If not, feel free to discard them. Everyone has unique needs, and what works for one person may not for another.
Lastly, remember to take breaks! Short breaks throughout the day can refresh your perspective and boost your energy levels.
What productivity tips do you recommend? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
I write about leadership and training, and I’ve created The New Leader's Starter Kit to assist leaders in effectively communicating with their teams. Download your free copy here — The New Leader's Starter Kit includes guidance on conducting one-on-one meetings and providing constructive feedback, along with a printable form and checklist.
Chapter 3: Quick and Cozy Fall Recipes
To complement your productivity journey, here are some quick fall recipes that can be made in just 20 minutes for less than $1 per serving. These dishes are not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making them ideal for busy leaders.
The first video showcases three easy and cozy fall soups that are perfect for the season.
In addition, consider these top three quick and easy recipes that can be cooked daily to sustain your energy and productivity.