How To Be Efficient and Productive

Certain factors may negatively affect the employees performance, the effect of which could be disastrous to both the employee and the company. Listed below are some of the things you need to pay attention to if you want to become efficient at your job:

• 1. Do not accept more than you can handle.
  Sometimes, people want to please their bosses so much that they would be willing to add up more work to their already unending tasks with the hope of being recognized and promoted. What they didnt know is that theyll end up being more inefficient, frustrated, and stressed-out just to meet the deadlines. If you think you cannot accommodate an additional workload or a new project, then be honest and tell your boss about it. With a justifiable explanation, your superior would understand your situation and would be glad to assign the task to someone else with less workload.
   
• 2. Organize your files and office supplies well.
  A table with too much clutter can leave you in disarray. Make sure you group identical things together so you wont have to waste time in finding the things you need. (Organization will be discussed in a later chapter).
   
• 3. Move it.
  Your body, that is. Exercise has been proven to reduce work-related stress and anxiety. Regular exercise can help maintain your body in tip-top condition to handle the challenges of work. If you can, stretch your body or take frequent breaks within your work schedule to revitalize yourself.
   
• 4. Get enough sleep.
  Not getting enough sleep can make you drowsy and weak, thereby impairing your concentration and ability to do the job well. 7 to 8 hours is normal for most people but there is actually no norm. Some could sleep just 4 hours and still be in great working condition. Know the minimum hours of sleep you can take to become productive during the day and make sure you get enough of it daily. Take a short 15 to 30 minute nap during break time if you can. It will give you energy for the rest of the day.
   
• 5. Use devices or supplies that save time.
  Get a stamper with your signature in it so you can minimize your time in signing documents. If youre given a choice, choose a laptop instead of a desktop computer for better accessibility to your work when youre outside the office.
   
• 6. Eat light lunch.
  If you splurge in an eat-all-you-can treat at lunch, theres a big chance youll get lethargic later on in the afternoon. Stay alert for the rest of the day by limiting your lunch, and by taking a light snack if you go hungry at mid-afternoon.
   
• 7. Delegate.
  During the normal course of your work, you would most likely encounter time killers such as unwanted phone calls and emails, or waiting in line to photocopy some documents. If you could delegate these and other similar tasks to others, you could be freeing a lot of time for more productive pursuits.