6 tips to help you be more efficient

Running a business can be hard work, with lots of plates to spin. To help you be more efficient, we've put together these 6 top tips:

1. Make a list

The best way for you to stay on track is by simply writing down exactly what you need to do for that day. 

The size of this list can vary, but it is probably best not to put too many things on there. You may be better off focusing on doing a few things well rather than spending a bit of time on lots of small tasks. But of course, everyone business need is different so this is totally up to you.

2. Allocate time 

Once your list is written down, you can allocate a certain amount of time towards each task. For example you could start the morning off by answering emails and give yourself a time limit of say 90 minutes. If you work in retail you could for example then focus on sorting out excess stock for 2 hours. 

This will vary depending on what industry you are in, but look at this as a method to make your time management more effective. 

And be flexible. If you don’t finish a task that is fine. You can do it later or put it in for the next day. 

3. Identify what is important and what isn’t 

Running a business can sometimes mean doing a number of different things simultaneously. So in order to be more efficient with your time you need to prioritise.

An article in Campaign Magazine cites a very effective method known as the Eisenhower Matrix. This involves drawing a 2X2 square. On one axis you can put important and another not important and on the other urgent and not urgent. This is a good way to focus.

4. Remove temptation 

We wouldn’t be human beings if we weren’t distracted from time to time, and this can be particularly easy if you’re working on a computer all day, with the trappings of the internet right in front of you. 

With this in mind, it’s important that you try and stay away from websites that will make you lose track of time as well as any social media sites.

We would recommend putting your phone away when you’re in the middle of an important task that demands your attention. This means you won’t need to be distracted by Whatsapp messages and other notifications. 

But maybe you find it hard to stay away from the news, especially when there is so much of it at the moment. If that is the case, then there are some good anti-distraction programs that are really handy. Take a look at Anti-social, Stay focused and self-control (a very apt name) as these can help you self regulate what you're browsing during work hours. 

But whilst it’s important to work hard it’s also good to find times in the day to... 

5. Take a break 

It’s difficult to completely focus on work all day without taking some kind of break. So if you can, try and make sure that you dedicate times of your day where you can take small breaks to unwind.

We appreciate that things can get stressful and having a break may not be a luxury that everyone can afford in difficult times. But if it’s possible, you should take the opportunity to zone out for a bit - even if it’s for 10-15 mins.

Why not go for a brisk stroll to get some fresh air and exercise. Read an interesting article that has nothing to do with work that gets your brain thinking about other things. 

Or if you really have the time why not go out and grab a sandwich from your local cafe, or make one at home and eat it on the park bench before coming back recharged.

6. Don’t be too hard on yourself 

Being efficient all the time isn’t possible. Things can come up in your personal life that might be impossible to ignore. Or there might just be days where your energy levels aren’t what they usually are. 

If that sometimes happens don’t beat yourself up about it. You’re human you can't always perform to the maximum. Don’t dwell too much on what you didn’t do well. Just think about how you can perform better tomorrow. 

David Goulden

Copywriter