Do you want to concentrate?
Chances are, if you're preparing a presentation and at the same time trying to talk on the phone, eat lunch, and also browse through the news, something will probably escape your attention. Multitasking is a myth; monotasking is more effective. And yes: that really does mean doing just one thing at a time.
TIP:
Look at your computer and phone. Count the number of open applications, programs, and browser tabs. Close all but those that are absolutely necessary for your next task so that you can stay focused.
Do you want to communicate better?
In a team meeting, it might be difficult for you to stand out in a crowd that is paying you little attention. The first thing you need to do is focus on the pitch of your voice. Find a variety of vocal exercises to help you warm up your vocal cords before a speech. Next, watch the pace of your speech, which also affects how the message is received. Slow down to give your ideas the time they deserve. The last instrument is prosody or rhythm and intonation in your voice. If you have ever felt that your voice is monotonous, then you also need to focus on this area.
TIP:
Use your phone to record yourself speaking. Talk about what you did yesterday, for example, just as if you were describing it to a friend. Then listen to the recording and sense what you are doing wrong. Alternatively, have someone else evaluate the recording.
Do you want to be a better ally?
There is no magic wand to help you better integrate into the team. But you can affect your influence. Start with small items, such as the pronunciation of any complicated names of colleagues, addressing, listening. Beware also of interrupting other people when they are speaking.
TIP:
Prepare for the role of a defence lawyer. Write down 2-3 things you could say at a meeting if you notice someone is not receiving enough attention or their opinion is not being heard; then, at an appropriate moment, advance that opinion using strong arguments.
Do you want a better work-life balance?
For example, if you work 10 hours a day, adding a two-hour workout to your regular schedule may not help much. You also need to support your intellectual, emotional and spiritual side and balance these areas.
TIP:
Consider how an ideal balanced working week might look and write a sample schedule. What time do you start? When do you finish? For what would you like to set aside some time every day? Then make a list of how you actually spent your time the previous working week. Compare the ideal and actual weeks and identify where adjustments could be made. Be realistic about what you can achieve to prepare for success.
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