PRIORITIZE
“Most of us spend too much time on what is urgent and not enough time on what is important.”
― Stephen R. Covey
There has been much dialog recently on the importance of mental health, and how it is tied to our physical health. We know that many people find that work stress weighs them down. One of the best ways to tackle stress is by understanding your priorities. In our April Team Meeting at Stahl, we shared a list as a guide to “Strengthening the Team” through understanding how to prioritize what could otherwise become an overwhelming to-do list as a Project Manager. Here is an abbreviated version:
Write down all your tasks.
- Prioritize wisely. Focus on the most important tasks, regardless of size. If a new task pops up, evaluate the urgency and importance. Urgent but unimportant? Delegate.
- Focus on one thing at a time. Don’t get distracted by texts, emails, phone calls.
- Set deadlines for each task.
- Learn to say “no” or delegate when appropriate.
- Don’t let the details drag you down. Spending too much time on minor details prevents you from moving forward and completing the task.
- Understand your work rhythm. Sleep, exercise, and eating habits can all be adjusted to ensure you’re feeling your best throughout the day, and productivity will follow.
- Sleep 7-9 hours each night. Studies show a direct association between sleep and productivity.
- Stop and switch off. Knowing when to stop is key to maintaining productivity long-term. Lunch breaks, weekends, and vacations are all rest periods which will help you work faster and harder upon your return.
- Turn time management tips into habits. It takes time to develop habits. Your chance for success will increase if you remain diligent with your new techniques for a few weeks, then they will begin to be automatic.
