In this episode, Niamh addresses a common problem: finding time for new goals when your workday is already packed. She shares practical strategies on how to create more space and capacity by changing how you manage and experience time.
It's common to set goals for the year and then wonder where you will find the time to achieve them, especially if you're working in an organisation with a packed schedule. Niamh states that a lot of our work circumstances are outside our control, so she wants to focus on what you can do this week to create more space. To do this, you need to look at both the clock's ticking and how you experience time.
Niamh provides several practical tips for managing time. First, plan with intention. Take a moment to decide what you will work on next, even if it's just for 30 minutes, to avoid aimlessly picking up tasks. Second, embrace monotasking. Fragmenting work by jumping between tasks is tiring and wasteful because your brain constantly has to recalibrate. Practising monotasking, even for just two more minutes on a task, helps you get more done and feel less overwhelmed. Third, leave a breadcrumb trail when you pause a task. Before you stop, jot down a note about where you left off. This helps you get back on track more easily and efficiently.
Niamh also shares strategies for managing how you experience time. She suggests dropping the word "busy," as it can make time feel rushed and frantic. Instead, approach the day with the mindset that you have a lot to do, but it will get done. Another technique is to use the "corridor of my mind" visualisation to centre yourself and decide what needs your attention at a specific moment. This helps you focus on one thing at a time and avoid feeling overwhelmed. Finally, remember that asking for help can be the most important step you take.
Plan with Intention: Decide what you will work on next to avoid wasting time.
Embrace Monotasking: Focus on one task at a time to get more done and feel less overwhelmed.
Use a Breadcrumb Trail: Leave a note when you pause a task to quickly get back up to speed later.
Mind Your Min and Max: Use minimum times to chip away at disliked tasks and maximum times to prevent enjoyable tasks from consuming your day.
Focus on Your Control: You might not be able to change your schedule, but you can control how you approach your tasks and manage your own time.
Ditch the "Busy" Mindset: Saying you're "busy" can make time feel like it's speeding up and cause you to feel rushed.
Prioritise Monotasking: Multitasking is tiring and wasteful. Practise focusing on one task at a time to increase your productivity and reduce fatigue.
Know What "Good Enough" Looks Like: Not every task requires 100% effort. Considering what level of effort is needed can help you avoid making things more complex than they need to be.
Ask for Help: The best way to create more space in your day is to ask for help, whether that means delegating a task or simply getting a different perspective from a colleague.
Welcome to The Better Workday Podcast with your host, Niamh Moynihan. Niamh is the founder of Better Workday. She will challenge you to think differently about how you manage your time, energy, attention and relationships at work to be successful while supporting your well-being.
In each episode Niamh shares new insights and practical ideas to help you create a better workday.
If you found this episode helpful, please share it with a friend or colleague who might also benefit from these tips. If you would like to support the podcast, please subscribe and leave a rating or review.
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