With Commentary from Clinical Psychologist, Kathryn Smith, Psychology Consultants
Ever feel like you’re a rat on a wheel, working to turn the cogs without actually achieving anything?
Working efficiently can be difficult, especially in workplaces where multi-tasking is a given and deadlines demand super-powers from mere-mortals. Tuning out to the white noise and focusing on the tasks at hand is a challenge, but it might not be as difficult as you think.
Results from a recent study out of Pennsylvania State University has revealed something that seems all too obvious to be professionally proven. Turns out the age-old trick of ‘writing a list and checking it twice’, is the way to become a more efficient person.
The notion behind this is, it’s easier to complete tasks when they are broken down into smaller more manageable pieces. Not only will this motivate you to ‘hop to it’, you may feel greater reward as you tick off the completed tasks.
Clinical Physiologist, Kathryn Smith advises; “Patience is also a virtue of both an efficient worker and their task-master. Starting with a clear head and writing down the tasks you want to achieve in a realistic timeframe is important”.
“Prioritise tasks by their level of importance and the results they will achieve. Set achievable deadlines that are not going to cause unnecessary stress and upwards manage, explaining to your superior the thought process behind the timings” says Ms Smith.
Knowing your rights within your workplace is also very important and managing undue stress and pressure will help you work more effectively and efficiently. Communicating to managers and co-workers what is manageable for you is not a sign of weakness but rather a sign of a motivated person that wants to achieve goals whilst prioritizing personal health.
‘Health’ is defined in the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 as both physical and psychological health and unnecessary stress and pressure places your health at risk.
If you are experiencing workplace stress and would like to better manage your personal and work related goals, speaking to a psychologist can help you gain perspective, motivation and provide the clarity you need to achieve your personal best.