How to be Efficient and Effective

If you are reading this article, then you probably feel like you shouldn't be using up valuable task time to learn how to be efficient and effective, but you are anyway because your can't seem to get everything done. Does this sound confusing? It should - because that's how people feel when they're not being efficient and effective, but don't worry. These steps are simple to follow and can help you right away.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Take a deep breath. The first step in becoming more efficient and effective is not getting up and rushing around to do everything at once. Remember, that kind of behavior is probably what made you search for this article.

2. Write a list. Don't give up on this step. This is the part that you have heard before, but face it, there really isn't another way to quantify what it is you need to get done unless you see it all on paper, your planner, blackberry or other electronic device. Seeing what needs to get done will help you prioritize what is most important.

3. Do a few of the things on your list each day. This is when you start to feel efficient. Scratching just a few of those tasks off your list will allow you to relax a bit more and know you are being effective.
   
   *There will always be more to do, so there will always be more to add to the list. This means that you can let go of the expectation that you should get it all done today!

4. Multi-task when it makes sense. If you are heading upstairs to get changed, bring up the laundry with you. This is effective multi-tasking. Getting the bread out to make a sandwich, vacuuming half of a room, then checking the mail is the kind of multi-tasking that makes you feel ineffective.
   
   *When you start to feel stress while you are multi-tasking, it is a sign that you are no longer being efficient and effective.

5. Take breaks. Effective and efficient people have a secret - they understand when it is time to take a break to recharge their energy. This can be a five minute cat nap or a week long vacation, but it is a break from their tasks. This break will give you perspective. It can be a time to reprioritize what needs to happen next, or it can be time to let the mind rest. Just make sure that you are separating yourself from your work once in awhile in some form.

Tips & Warnings

• Some people just try to do too much all the time. If you try the steps above and you are still feeling inefficient and ineffective, then try asking family or close friends for help with some of your burden.

[giantsteps]

on 7/10/2009 Great advice, especially the part about taking breaks. I'm not very good at that, but I know if I'm not overworked I work much more efficiently.

[karileighk]

on 7/10/2009 Taking breaks is something that helps you out in a lot of ways!

[jenng]

on 7/10/2009 Great article on How to be Efficient and Effective5*