PPB April 2020

down on the next day’s to-do list. That way I don’t forget it but can dismiss it frommy mind for the day. There are multitudes of systems out there to help you prioritize efficiently. The Franklin Covey Time Management Matrix is particularly popular in my office, as well as the Pareto Principle, aka the 80/20 Rule. If prioritization is something you struggle with, do some research on different options and dedicate time to trying some on for size. 4 De-Clutter Your Workspace In our gadget-filled industry especially, desktops are a minefield of distractions—stress balls, fidget spinners and other items take up space not only on the desk, but in the mind. If you’re prone to distraction, remove any and all diversions from your desk, especially when it’s time to focus. Put all of them—including your cell phone—in a drawer so they’re out of sight and out of mind. In addition to simplifying your workspace, adopt a filing system to keep paper off your desk as much as possible. Keeping a clean, open space on your desk helps keep your mind focused. Take the same approach to your computer as well. Establish clear file paths, use shortcuts efficiently and don’t leave files on your desktop that you won’t need, or need often. 5 Take a Break Burnout is a serious problem, especially amongst young professionals who may not have as much PTO or flexibility as their tenured colleagues. It’s difficult to walk away from a task when you have an upcoming deadline, but it’s important to give yourself time to recharge, even if it’s just taking a walk after lunch or sitting in the break room to drink your coffee. Setting aside a difficult or frustrating project, even for a fewminutes, can help adjust your perspective and refresh your attitude. When you try anything new, it’s important to give yourself time to establish a routine. It takes at least two months to build a new habit, so commit an honest effort and at least that much time to each system that appeals to you before deciding if it will work long-term. Kacie Brinner is the information services project supervisor and Prop 65 SME at industry business services provider SAGE and a volunteer leader with SPARK, the industry network for young professionals. PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT PPAI: 111248 | ASI: 35375 | SAGE: 50327 | UPIC: ACCENTS | DC:101273 www.americanaccents.com 888.287.7883 | customerservice@americanaccents.com TABLE TENTS NEW IN 2020! 25 piece minimum 3 day turnaround Made & printed in the USA Recyclable material Perfect for dinner functions & receptions! Full color digital imprint Design allows for quick & glueless assembly No die cut fees! | APRIL 2020 | 75 THINK