Choose a system – and stick to it
Michael Morowitz, executive technology director, R/GA Chicago: "Prioritization is easy to understand but hard to manage. It’s very easy to fall into the firefighter trap where you’re just putting out the biggest thing you can see. The key to successful prioritization is to have a system and do it daily. The system matters less than the daily practice of establishing prioritized tasks and sticking to it as best you can. If you’re looking to start with a simple system, check out The Ivy Lee Method, which is bare-bones but super-powerful.”
Start with the hardest tasks
Beatrice Olivas, CRO, Motive: “The advice I give to my sales team is twofold: first, set realistic expectations – it’s bad form to miss your own deadlines. Second, work on the hardest project of the day first so your day gets gradually easier to navigate as you slow down. These tips will help make your schedule less stressful and your day-to-day tasks more impactful.”
Create a culture of support
Devin Gharibian-Saki, chief solution officer, Redwood : “A balanced and productive work life is only possible in the right work environment, where distractions are minimized and you can actually focus. I’ve found that a unified team structure is a key factor in determining my productivity level and ability to concentrate on the right things. What I find essential for a productive and calm work environment is a peer leadership team that supports each other, has the right attitude about working together, and shares a sense of trust that everyone is working to their full potential.
There are a variety of ways I manage to stay balanced and focused. Some examples:
- Invest time in your colleagues to support their professional growth and in turn, create a stronger team around you. This initial investment to foster their development will give you so much time back in the long run. The right people will take ownership of certain topics and tasks naturally, allowing you to focus elsewhere.
- I always make enough time to listen to others when they ask. When people feel heard, are pointed in the right direction and know who to tap for a particular question or concern, you won’t need to spend the time if it is not necessary.
- Enjoy the little things in life to reenergize. I find it very helpful to use any short breaks I have to appreciate being in the moment. Whether I’m having a nice conversation with a colleague, or find a quiet moment to look outside and enjoy the sunshine, it is grounding and revitalizing to fully appreciate these times."
