Remember the saying, “work smarter, not harder?” Well, “get more done by doing less” is its close cousin and operates on a similar principle.
We’ll admit that it sounds contradictory but it’s possible. It just requires a shift in perspective. It can be difficult to change your mindset, especially if you’ve been raised on traditional concepts like “no pain, no gain” but in this day and age when people are managing to get more done, it pays to take a look at their approach to see if we can learn from it.
So, you’re probably asking yourself, “how can I work less but get more done?”
Let’s begin by clearly defining what it means to do less get more done.
What Does “Get More Done By Doing Less” Mean?
First of all, getting more done by doing less doesn’t mean:
- Being lazy and avoiding work
- Settling for sub-standard results
- Not trying
- Having a casual and non-committal attitude
Getting more while doing less encourages proper prioritization so you can focus on the things that are important and be genuinely productive. It requires you to be intentional about how you spend your time, and mindful of the effort you’re putting in. It also enables you to set clear priorities so you can eliminate distractions that hinder your progress.
Why Doing Less Is Better
Here’s why doing less is better:
Improves Your Focus
When you try to do too much at the same time, you feel frazzled and disorganized. But working on one thing at a time can help you prioritize and focus on the task at hand better. This will help you be more focused, enhancing your productivity and giving you higher-quality output.
Reduces Stress
Constantly juggling existing tasks and taking on new projects can be extremely stressful, and lead to burnout. Once you simplify your workload by focusing on high-priority tasks, you will feel less overwhelmed and stressed.
Encourages You To Be Creative
A full schedule leaves very little room for innovation and creativity. Slowing down and taking your time instead of jumping between tasks constantly can be exactly what your mind needs to generate fresh ideas and develop creative, innovative solutions.
How Can I Work Less But Get More Done?
If you’re ready to make the change, here are some practical tips to help you out:
Prioritize Your Tasks
Identify which tasks are most important and focus on those. Avoid accepting projects that aren’t important just for the sake of it. It’s important to learn to say “no” if you already have a lot on your plate.
Set Realistic Goals
Accept that there is only so much you can do in a day and set your expectations accordingly. Create realistic deadlines for your goals, and try to keep your daily to-do list concise.
Use Time-Blocking
Designate a specific chunk of time for a particular task, and try to stick to your schedule. Remember to set aside time for breaks.
Learn to Delegate Tasks
Trying to do everything yourself can leave you with little to no time for rest. Delegate tasks to other people who are equipped to handle them so you can make progress on your goals and priorities.
Focus on Quality Over Quantity
This applies to everything — from your personal life, professional projects, goals, health, and hygiene. Rather than trying to get a lot done, ensure you do what you can to the best of your abilities. Direct your full attention towards it to ensure better quality, rather than focusing on “how much.”
Final Thoughts
Productivity isn’t just about doing more; it’s about doing the right things. Instead of trying to do everything at once, reflect on your goals and what really matters. Then, make a plan to focus your energy and attention on the tasks that are most important to you.
