Sometimes, it feels like you’ll never get the most out of your workday. After all, there are interruptions and busy work and distractions.
The good news is that it is possible to get more done. With the right organizational tips, you can stay on top of your work day — or at least minimize the time wasters.
Here are three organizational tips that will help you take your work day to the next level:
1. Try to Automate Some of Your Repetitive Tasks
Look through your tasks. Are there regular items you complete? Maybe you send thank-you emails to some of your regular clients or customers. Take the time to set up a few different emails, and schedule them to send out at certain times.
Tools like Boomerang can be added to your email and you can schedule them to go out at specific times.
You can also use canned responses to answer emails that you receive on a regular basis. If you feel like you keep answering the same questions over and over, a canned email response can cut down on the time spent.
Use scheduling tools to post on social media, or look for other ways to automate mundane and repetitive tasks. It might take a little time to set up these systems, but you will save even more time in the long run as you reduce the way they cut into your day.
2. Use a Digital To-Do List
Many people have started using paper journals and planners again. Any to-do list can be helpful, but you might get more help from a digital to-do list. The reason this is one of the best organizational tips is due to the fact that a digital list is more versatile.
You can usually search your to-do list. If you need to find something, it’s fast and easy to find what you’re looking for.
On top of that, it’s possible to sync your reminders and calendars digitally. This can keep you on track. I know it helps me to have a digital to-do list. I can check things off without any trouble. Plus, I often set up my calendar ringtones to notify me in advance so that I don’t miss anything. As much as I love my paper planner, I still miss things sometimes without the reminder — especially since I have multiple calendars.
3. Use the End of the Day to Prepare for the Next Day
You can also get a lot of done if you take time at the end of the day to get ready for the next day. Set aside time to organize your workspace. Do some filing. Prepare your to-do list for the next day (on your phone). Finish up some phone calls or emails. Complete your day and prepare for the next.
When you come into work the next day, you’ll be ready to go. Getting everything squared away can help you start the day right. When you have it all organized, it’s easier to make the most of your day and start fresh.
