To end my 4 part series, I wanted to share my quick list of tips with you. In case you missed the rest of the series, you can read part 1 here, part 2 here and part 3 here. Remember that doing several little things throughout your day can also improve your productivity. You can pick and choose which ones you would like to try. Best of luck.

1. Standardize processes.
2. Focus on tasks of high value.
3. Clarify objectives.
4. Learn to think on paper.
5. Anticipate upcoming work events or projects.
6. Avoid backlogs of work by keeping information flowing.
7. Flexibility leads to control. Use your “to do” list or other tools, but don’t let them control you.
8. When given a project or task, get all the information you can at once.
9. Excuse yourself from idle chatter after a few minutes.
10. When involved in discussions, stick to the issue at hand.
11. Finish what you start; avoid jumping around (multitasking).
12. Keep an organized workspace.

I hope you enjoyed this 4 part Series. I hope you continue to enjoy your summer.

Joan Burge

This blog was created from our Monday Motivators series. Monday Motivators is a weekly note offering practical ways to create a new mindset, change behaviors, develop positive relationships and thrive in the workplace with energy, effectiveness, and excellence.

To continue my series on better managing your day and work, today I am focusing on information overload. I’m sure you can relate. If you missed the prior parts of this series, you can read part 1 here and part 2 here.

There’s just too much information out there! In fact, information processing accounts for half the gross national product—and most of it ends up on paper that someone has to read. You don’t have to fall prey to information overload. You just have to be more selective about the information you choose to take in. Here are five steps to becoming a picky information consumer. [Read more…]