4 Ways to Improve Your Efficiency in the Office

In no particular order at all, here are my top 4 tips on how you can improve your efficiency in the workplace, specifically the office.  I know it’s been quite a few years since I’ve worked in a cubical, but the 4 simple steps in BOLD can be easily adapted for anywhere.  Next week I’ll tailor this list for where I’m currently at in life, as a SAHM who blogs and homeschools her children.  The concept is oddly similar.

Cut the Clutter.

Clean off your desk space.  If you have a cubical with walls don’t clutter them with anything and everything.  Select a few choice things, such as a family picture, an inspirational quote, and one fun thing, like a ticket stub from one of your favorite events.  You don’t need 30 writing utensils; pick about 5-10 that work well and keep those stored vertically in a pretty cup, store the rest somewhere else. Keep it simple.  A clean work space is not to be underestimated.

Limit Distractions.

I’m serious.  If you find yourself checking your cell phone more than just at break time, turn the darn thing off!  I know that’s a little harsh, but so many of us are so reliant on our phones and I’m noticing the younger generation cannot go an hour without at least glancing at it for the time (every few minutes!)  Turn your cell phone to vibrate, or even airplane mode, and if you really have a problem with it, keep it in a desk drawer.  Out of sight, out of mind.  You aren’t probably being paid to check Facebook.  Think of it this way, if you were the one writing the checks, how would you want your workers to handle their time?

Use your break times wisely.

 I know it’s nice to check social media during your break times, and that’s perfectly okay; especially if you have introverted tendencies and really need that break to be alone.  But how about a couple times a week you just visit with your co-workers during break instead?  Sans the phone would be best.  Chatting at break time, when using kindness and consideration, will increase the good vibes in the work place.  You’ll increase your bonding with your co-workers, and in turn feel like you want to be more efficient and do a good job because there are real people that you know counting on you.  Accountability is important.

*Don’t make a habit of skipping breaks to work through them.  Your brain needs little breaks to stay sharp. 

Have a clear goal in mind.

It’s hard to work towards something when you don’t know exactly what it is you’re working for.  It’s too easy to get distracted and start doing something else.  Make a quick list of your top 3 priorities for the day and keep plugging away until they’re done.

Give these quick tips a try and let me know if they helped! 

Bonus Points if you send me before and after pictures of your desk, because those are my absolute favorite!  Seriously, post them to my FACEBOOK WALL.