What really separates successful people from the rest is how they utilize their time. Although all of us have the same 24 hours, the ones that make the most of it are the ones that come out with flying colors.
If you really want to be ahead of everyone and at your maximum potential, it is essential to make proper use of those 1440 minutes we get every day. And mind you, doing that isn’t easy.
That is exactly why we’re here! Listed below are five habits you can build to make the maximum use of your time and stay on top of your game.
Think lazy
Sounds absurd, right? We know, but just think about this - which one is easier, loading a dishwasher or personally scrubbing each dish? Regardless of the technique, the outcome is the same so why put extra time and effort into it! The point is, that instead of spending all day doing one tedious task, try to find a way to make it less tedious. Come up with workflows or any innovation that will let you do more work with less effort. You can then use the extra time to tackle your next assignment. Before you know it, you will realize how much you’ve accomplished in such little time.
Don’t stick to the order
It’s a common misconception that chores must be done in order, you know just to simply start from the top. However, that is untrue! Estimate the time needed for all your chores, and then, as you find time between your day, just knock these tasks off your to-do list. For example, you get ten minutes of break time; try doing a small task on that list or if you’ve got a longer break accomplish a bigger task. If you do what you can, when you can, the results will truly be shocking.
Treat every moment as an opportunity
Instead of spending your break time scrolling through Instagram, staring outside your window while in a taxi, or watching the people on the subway, make use of this time. Transiting from one place to another can be a great opportunity to reply to pending emails, prep for the upcoming meeting, or just read something educational. Instead of watching a movie on the flight, listen to a podcast, read a leadership book or read articles written by experts. Once you start treating every moment as an opportunity, there’s so much you will be able to accomplish.
Return on Investment
This may seem harsh, but it’s important to ask yourself before you commit to something, “what can I get in return.” It is essential to answer this question because grabbing a drink with an old friend is great and a lot of fun, but it is taking you away from your work, family or education. Thus, you may want to reconsider before spending your time on something with no returns. Rest and relaxation are important, but if it’s something you’re doing out of obligation, it’s okay to say no sometimes.
Focus on the best, outsource the rest
One important aspect that we often forget is that we get so caught up in things we can’t do, that we forget about the things we can do. Instead of perfecting something that doesn’t come naturally to you, find your superpower and work on it. You can then find people who are good at what you’re weakest at and let them do their best work. It’s magic once you find what you’re good at and can outsource the rest. The right people will be at the right places, everything will get streamlined, and the results will be mind-blowing.
Start now
Now that you know all the secrets to maximize your time and stay on top of your game, it’s time to actually do it. It is definitely not an easy task, but these are habits that you have to build over time. Trust us; before you know it, you’ll be making the most of your daily 1440 minutes!