We’ve all had those days… that overwhelming feeling as a deadline approaches, the sudden memory of all the pending tasks flashing at once. Sometimes, our mind goes blank or fogs up just when we need it the most.  It’s time to take back control of our workday and stay in charge of how we feel and think. As the saying goes, if you fail to plan, you plan to fail.   

"Getting your mindset in order is just like selecting the right tools for the job. We can try to hit nails with a spanner, but the hammer is always a better choice." 

- Suvisesh Badhrinarayanan, Performance Coach, Propel

Mindset Safeguard  

First, let’s get our mind in order by understand the Pareto principle. The Pareto principle is a powerful concept that can help us become more effective and efficient in our lives. By understanding that a small percentage of our efforts can generate the majority of our results, we can focus our time and energy on the most important tasks and activities. However, it's important to note that identifying the "magic 20%" requires a mindset check. We need to take a step back and assess our priorities, goals, and values. This involves being honest with us about what truly matters and what we are willing to invest our time and energy into. 

Once we have identified our top priorities, we can start to work smarter, not harder, by focusing on the 20% of tasks that will yield the most significant results. This might involve delegating tasks, saying no to non-essential commitments, or reorganizing our schedules to ensure that we are devoting enough time to our priorities. In addition to working smarter, nurturing the magic 20% also requires discipline, persistence, and a willingness to learn and adapt. We may need to develop new skills or habits, seek out guidance and feedback, and remain open to new opportunities and ideas. 

By adopting a mindset that values efficiency, effectiveness, and continuous improvement, we can unlock our full potential and achieve our goals with greater ease and satisfaction. So, take a moment to reflect on our priorities and start nurturing that magic 20%. The results will be well worth the effort. 

"Prioritization helps to focus our work to meet the requirements. We align ourselves with the vision and develop the pattern needed to drive towards a common goal." 

- Vaibhav Nale, Business Analyst, Propel  

Prioritize, Schedule, and Minimize 

Prioritize your tasks: Create a list of the most important task and rank them in order of priority. Ask yourself these questions:   

• If this task is not completed, what is the consequence.   
• Does the consequence extend to me or anyone else in the team?    

The most impactful tasks also have the most consequence when not completed. Prioritize them in this fashion.   

Schedule your time: Allot time by identifying productive slots during the day. Ensure that you also factor in your break and mealtimes. Plan to establish a framework that allows you to be flexible with tasks without giving in to the urge to procrastinate. Utilize the Pomodoro technique- set a timer for 20minutes of focused work followed by 5 mins of a break to reset and get back to the task. This would help us make full use of the flow state without running the risk of burnout or fatigue.    

Minimize distractions: Background apps consume power even though they aren’t being used. This is true with our minds as well. A lot of distractions stem from unmet needs. Anticipate your needs of food, water, entertainment, and social interaction well in advance to ensure you get them.   

Bottom Line 

Remember, staying focused and managing stress is not a one-time fix, but a daily practice. Be realistic, encourage yourself with every step, reset and reflect and stay calm in the face of uncertainty.