Being productive and learning to do things better are needed at every level in the workplace. With time and competition hot on your heels, you have to zone into the right things and tune out the unnecessary. I liked this list I saw on a blackboard in a photo in a magazine, and have added my commentary to each of the action points.
- Do one thing at a time
Multitasking is over-rated. Do one thing, do it well, then move to the next thing. Focus, commitment, discipline. - Know the problem
If you want to start with the answer, you have to understand the problem. - Learn to listen
If you don’t listen you don’t learn. - Learn to ask questions
Ignorance is voluntary. Change it. Ask. And follow Don Miguel Ruiz’s advice. Never assume. Ask. - Distinguish sense from nonsense
Focus on what really matters and don’t get distracted by the things that don’t. - Accept changes as inevitable
Be prepared. Be adaptable and pragmatic. Surf the wave of change. - Admit mistakes
Fail Fast. Learn Fast. Fix Fast. - Say it simple
If people can’t understand what you’re saying, you’ve got it wrong. - Be calm
Stay cool, calm and collected under pressure. Don’t take it personally. - Smile
It goes a long way.
