No two workdays are the same, most of the time. There are many days where merely showing up to work seems like that is the best you’ll do. Showing up and doing your best work on the daily is what will ultimately set you apart and make you feel like a more productive member of the organization. It is what gets you noticed for opportunities, such as a new project or a promotion.
Even thought you may be working from home and not visibly seen, don’t fall into the complacency trap of doing minimal work or not being fully vested in the day. Here are 5 tips to ensure you are doing your best work – it will keep you engaged and raise your competency and confidence:
- Set Clear Milestones
You have a project to complete. Instead of working endlessly toward that one end goal, set mini-goals or milestones for yourself. If you can meet a milestone every, or every other, day, it will be easier to keep your head up and pushing forward with the same vigor as day one.
- Prioritize and Plan
Many jobs include prioritizing work tasks. Take time at the beginning and end of every day to look at what you have done and what you need to do. Prioritizing and planning your workday (or the next one) will allow you to move seamlessly through your day without losing focus.
- Conquer Difficult Tasks First
That one task you are really dreading, like calling back an annoying salesman. Do it first, ala ‘Eat the Frog.” Get it off your list. The rest of the day will seem like a breeze, and you won’t use other tasks as a way of procrastinating.
- Be Aware of Limitations
Your limitations exist. Everyone has limitations. Be aware and admit these to yourself. You may also need to disclose your shortcomings to your supervisor or a coworker – there is no shame in asking for help as these will be found out, often the hard way. Being aware of things that are out of your league will make asking for help easier. It will also give you a list of skills you need to work on professionally.
- Don’t Stress
The first four tips in this list can be daunting. Numbers 1, 2, and 3 may require that you restructure your workday. Number three might give you heart palpations, and number four, who wants to admit to their own shortcomings? Do not let these tips stress you out. Instead, slowly work to implement the easiest of the suggestions (whichever that may be for you), and level up when you are ready. By doing so, you will be creating good daily habits to keep you going, whether you remain working from home or go back in the office.
Bringing your A-game daily will take time and hard work, two things you are no stranger to. Remember that doing your best work every day of the week will pay off in the long run, even if it seems complicated and scary in the beginning. Being your best can set the tone for the team to raise their productivity and being their best. Think of how much will get done while creating a cohesive team.
Does your team need a tune-up? Elite Leadership Success Institute offers team-building training and workshops for businesses that need to improve productivity, morale, and alignment. We offer individual and group coaching and are committed to helping leaders manage a decentralized workforce.