Tip #1 Set goals everyday. Goals are clearly defined steps to completing a task. Goals are designed to help you see the big picture and help you avoid trudging through an overwhelming number of details. Set goals prior to starting work can streamline your responsibilities and get focused on your project.
Tip #2 Say no. Learning to say no is a vital stress management skill. Two of the most common reasons for not setting time boundaries are feeling guilty or selfish when saying no. Workplace burnout can leave a worker feeling powerless over whether or not to take on new projects. Be clear about your motivation and intent for accepting new projects. Make plans to delegate other tasks to balance out your responsibilities.
Tip #3 Reduce Technology Interruption. Technology keeps us connected to the world. However, phone calls, emails, voice mails can overwhelm and interrupt getting your to do list done. Set up systems to control incoming calls by setting aside a certain time of day to return calls. Depending on how much your job relies on email communication will determine how often you should check for new messages. The bottom line is not to be a chronic email checker and find what practice works best for you.
Tip #4 Take lunch outside of the office. Stepping away from your desk can be a refreshing way to reduce stress at work. Whether you have lunch on the outside patio at work, or walk to a local restaurant or park, step away from you desk to break the monotony of your daily routine. Taking a short walk or enjoying beautiful weather can add exercise or an opportunity for a short meditation break.
Tip #5 Do one thing at a time. Human multitasking was a popular approach to productivity in the 1990's. However, this is not the most effective way to be productive. Instead, use the list that you created at the beginning of the day. If other ideas or tasks pop up, write them down. Continue with the task at hand until it is completed. Then, return to your list. Evaluate whether your new to do items should be added to your goal list.
Tip #6 Delegate tasks whenever possible. A common thought around delegation includes that it is easier to do the task yourself. One guaranteed path to burnout is the reluctance to delegate tasks. Create a delegation list at the beginning of the work week. Jot down any routine tasks to finish. Review your list at the end of the work week and look for repetitive tasks. Begin by choosing one or two tasks that others could help you complete. Soon you will feel the relief of delegating tasks.
Tip #7 Stop Shuffling Papers. Paperwork stacks can get out of hand very quickly. Make a home for paper as soon as it touches your hands. Filing takes only a few seconds and will save you the enormous tasks of dealing with that unwanted stack of paper at a later time. Stackable desk bins can only be helpful if there is an assigned purpose for the bin. Recognize your filing and sorting habits will create less stress at work.
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