High-performers like to complete their tasks and check off items on their to-do lists. But it often happens to them that in their efforts to finish everything they actually lose productivity. If you want to make sure that this is not your case, read the following list of typical activities that cost high-performing employees productivity. If any of them apply to you, it’s time to take a step back and reset your priorities.
You want an empty inbox
You try to answer everything. But if you’re constantly dealing with email, something is wrong. Next time you feel the need to check your email, try opening your list of high-priority tasks instead.
You do too much research
Too much information actually prevents things from getting done. Gathering information is important, but not at the expense of decision-making and practical action.
You focus on tasks that have minimum meaning
If you do something every day and it doesn’t have a direct impact on your long-term goal, you don’t have to put it on your to-do list.
You end the week on a weak note
Most people start the week off strong but finish slow. You should end your week by planning the following week. This will give you a more consistent workload for all days.
You change the way you manage your tasks
You use a pencil and paper one moment, an online system the next, and soon you’re using something different again. You’re needlessly making things too complicated. Try to stick with one system.
You allow yourself to be swallowed up by the Internet
You lose time when you visit social networks and other non-work sites. There’s nothing to add here. Install a browser extension that blocks these sites for you or at least clearly shows you how much time you spend on them.
You want to do everything at once
Try to be realistic when setting your to-do list. Don’t plan more than three to five priorities per day. It makes no sense to try to handle everything you’ve written down all at once.
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