There are only so many hours in the day, so making the most of your time is critical. There are two ways increase your output--either put in more hours or work smarter. I don't know about you, but I prefer the latter.
Being more productive at work requires being more deliberate about how you manage your time, but with a few tweaks, is more than possible for anyone to achieve.
Track and limit how much time you're spending on tasks.
You may think you're pretty good at gauging how much time you're spending on various tasks. However, some research suggests only around 17 percent of people are able to accurately estimate the passage of time.
You have 'sets' of tasks to complete as clients move from one part of the mortgage process to the next. Track how long this is so you can both plan more accurately AND look to reduce that time.
Take regular breaks.
It sounds counterintuitive, but taking scheduled breaks can actually help improve concentration.
Some research has shown that taking short breaks during long tasks helps you to maintain a constant level of performance; while working at a task without breaks leads to a steady decline in performance.
Consider Pomodoros, a time management system that allows for regular recharging breaks.
Set self-imposed deadlines.
While we usually think of a stress as a bad thing, a manageable level of self-imposed stress can actually be helpful in terms of giving us focus and helping us meet our goals. Try giving yourself a deadline, and then stick to it. You may be surprised to discover just how focused and productive you can be when you're watching the clock.
Follow the two-minute rule.
Implement the "two-minute rule" to make the most of small windows of time that you have at work. The idea is this: If you see a task or action that you know can be done in two minutes or less, do it immediately.
Completing the task right away actually takes less time than having to get back to it later.
Quit multitasking.
While we tend to think of the ability to multitask as an important skill for increasing efficiency, the opposite may in fact be true.
Psychologists have found attempting to do several tasks at once can result in lost time and productivity. Instead, make a habit of committing to a single task before moving on to your next project.
Take advantage of your commute.
Instead of Candy-Crushing or Facebooking, use that time to pound out some emails, create your daily to-do list, or do some brainstorming. I talk myself through tasks as I drive to work and yes, I look daft, but it helps me set up my day in the 'lost' hours commuting.
Take exercise breaks.
If possible, build in set times during the week for taking a walk or going to the gym. Getting your blood pumping could be just what's needed to clear your head and get your focus back.
Work in 90-minute intervals.
Researchers at Florida State University have found elite performers (athletes, chess players, musicians, etc.) who work in intervals of no more than 90 minutes are more productive than those who work 90 minutes-plus. They also found that top performing subjects tend to work no more than 4.5 hours per day.
Give yourself something nice to look at.
It may sound unlikely, but some research shows outfitting an office with aesthetically pleasing elements--like plants--can increase productivity by up to 15 percent.
Jazz up your office space with pictures, candles, flowers, or anything else that puts a smile on your face.
Minimise interruptions (to the best of your ability).
Even brief interruptions appear to produce a change in work pattern and a corresponding drop in productivity. Minimising interruptions may mean setting office hours, sitting somewhere quiet, or working from home for time-sensitive projects.
If you feel the need to increase your productivity at work, resist the temptation put in longer hours or pack more into your already-full calendar. Instead, take a step back, and think about ways you can work smarter, not harder.