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On a scale of one to 10, how productive do you think you are on the job? Are you someone who comes in early to make the most out of your day? Or do you handle things as they come, hoping to stay on top of everything thrown your way?
There is no right or wrong way of doing things so long as you aren’t overworking yourself to stay ahead. Here are some thing that can actually be counterproductive.
Are you guilty of any?
Read 10 Surprising Office Hacks to Make Your Work Life More Productive
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Multitasking
While you might think you’re getting more done by multitasking, it can work against you. It’s better to concentrate your efforts on one thing at a time–as opposed to several things that get half your attention. Do you want to get something done, or have a ton of almost finished demands you need to complete?
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Caring so much
Are you going to spend your time at work focusing on how people will receive your ideas? Way too many of us are stalling our own growth out of fear of rejection, critiques and the general opinions of others. Sure you shouldn’t do anything too out the gate that can jeopardize your credibility, but please stop caring so much about what others think.
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Working in an office
Say what now?
There are studies out there revealing you can be more productive (and happy) working from home than inside an office. It was once thought those who telecommute would have a harder time concentrating and getting things done. Sure it can get lonely not having co-workers around you, but don’t think you have to work in an office to be productive.
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Not taking breaks
This one should be a given considering those of us who think we need to work on end without a break. All batteries eventually need recharging, so why do you think your brain is different? Take a few short breaks throughout the day to clear your head.
Read 10 Reasons Why You Need to Take Breaks
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Covet your to-do list
Step away from your pen and pencil. To-do lists are a great way to organize your life so long as you don’t allow them to control it. Yes you should aim to scratch things off your list, but please allow room for unexpected tasks that need to be done right now.
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Seek perfection
Obviously there is no such thing as perfection, so why are you trying to achieve it? All of us should strive to be the very best we can be. Just don’t waste your time trying to be completely perfect. Oftentimes it’s our flaws that can turn into what makes us unique.
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Take too many meetings
Let’s do some math shall we? If you typically have eight hours to do your work, but sit in four-hour-long meetings, how much time does that leave for you to be productive? Speak to your boss about cutting down on the amount of meetings you are required to attend for the sake of using your time efficiently.
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Stay at your desk
Child if you stay glued to the chair in your cubicle you are going to do more harm than good. For starters, you need to get up and walk around for the sake of circulation. It also keeps you isolated from your co-workers which can make you look like a grinch on the job.
Staying at your desk is a good way to guarantee burnout. Remember, you need to take breaks throughout the day.
Read Get Away From Your Desk! 10 ‘Me Time’ Ideas for Your Lunch Break
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Working overtime
You might enjoy the extra pay you receive from working overtime, but it’s not the best when it comes to productivity. Some experts believe the more you work the less productive you’re going to be, which is music to our ears considering the amount of work our jobs try to throw at us. Being efficient isn’t always related to the more hours you put in.
