7 Effective Workflow Strategies to Boost Your Productivity
Being productive can be more challenging for some people, especially when they have to juggle multiple tasks and projects at the same time. While there are different approaches and methodologies to enhance productivity, workflow strategies are one effective way to manage and prioritize tasks efficiently. In this article, we’ll explore seven workflow strategies shared by Chris Murtland that can complement the Getting Things Done (GTD) methodology and help you accomplish your daily projects.
1. Alternate Projects
One of the workflow strategies that Chris Murtland suggests is to work on different projects alternatively. This means that instead of focusing on one task or project until it’s done, you divide your workday into different periods and switch between projects regularly. For instance, you can work on project A for an hour, then switch to project B for another hour, and so on.
The benefit of this strategy is that it helps you stay engaged and productive for a more extended period without getting bored or burned out. Moreover, alternating between different projects can provide a fresh perspective and new insights that can improve your decision-making and creativity.
2. Big Chunks of Time on Certain Projects
In contrast to the previous strategy, this workflow method suggests allocating significant blocks of time on certain projects. For example, if you have a complex project that requires intense concentration and deep work, you can schedule two or three hours in a row to focus exclusively on that project.
The advantage of this strategy is that it allows you to immerse yourself in the task and avoid interruptions or distractions that can negatively impact your productivity. Moreover, dedicating big chunks of time to certain projects can help you make significant progress and achieve milestones faster.
3. Complete as Many Small Items as Possible
If you have many small and medium-sized tasks on your to-do list, this workflow strategy can be helpful. Instead of tackling them randomly, Chris Murtland suggests grouping them by category or context and prioritizing them by how quickly you can complete them.
For instance, you can group all the phone calls you need to make, all the emails you need to reply to, and all the paperwork you need to fill out. Then, you can start with the easy or urgent ones and move towards the more complex or less pressing ones. The idea is to leverage momentum and build confidence by completing as many items as possible.
4. Oldest First
Another workflow strategy that Chris Murtland recommends is to prioritize tasks based on their age. This means that you start with the oldest task or project on your list and move towards the newest ones. The rationale behind this approach is that older tasks can accumulate more stress and require more energy to complete, while newer tasks can be less urgent or important.
By tackling the oldest tasks first, you can reduce the mental burden and free up mental space for other tasks. Moreover, you can create a sense of progress and closure by resolving long-standing issues or problems.
5. Newest First
Contrary to the previous strategy, this workflow method suggests starting with the newest tasks or projects on your list. The reason behind this approach is that new tasks can be more exciting and motivating, and can generate a sense of novelty and anticipation.
Moreover, tackling new tasks first can help you avoid procrastination and resistance that can arise from the fear of the unknown or the complexity of older tasks. However, be careful not to neglect older tasks that may have strategic value or long-term repercussions.
6. Squeaky Wheel
If you work in a team or have clients or stakeholders who need your attention, this workflow strategy can be helpful. The “squeaky wheel” refers to the people who are the most vocal or demanding and require immediate feedback or resolution.
Instead of ignoring or delaying their requests, Chris Murtland suggests prioritizing them and addressing them promptly. By doing so, you can build trust and rapport with your colleagues or clients and avoid conflicts or misunderstandings.
7. Goal Driven
The final workflow strategy that Chris Murtland recommends is to align your tasks and projects with your goals and values. This means that you prioritize tasks that are directly or indirectly related to your personal or professional mission and vision.
For example, if your goal is to become a better public speaker, you can prioritize tasks that involve writing and delivering speeches or attending workshops and training sessions. By focusing on your goals, you can create a sense of purpose and meaning in your work and avoid getting sidetracked by busywork or distractions.
Conclusion
Workflow strategies can be powerful tools to enhance productivity and effectiveness. By experimenting with different approaches and methods, you can find the ones that work best for you and your work style. Whether you prefer alternating projects, allocating big chunks of time, or completing small items, remember to stay flexible and adaptable, and adjust your strategies as needed. Ultimately, what matters is not how many tasks you complete but how well you align your work with your goals and values.
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