Why Productivity Matters
Working in a fast-paced environment can mean juggling multiple projects and constant change. In the Strategy and Engagement Chapter within the University of Exeter’s Digital team, we don’t just focus on getting things done, we focus on getting the right things done in the smartest way possible.
Here are a few simple yet game-changing productivity hacks that keep us working efficiently without burning out.
Automate, Template + Leverage Digital Tools
If we find ourselves doing the same thing more than once, we ask: Can this be automated? Can we make a template?
This applies to common emails, agendas, and presentations. Pre-written templates save time and reduce repetitive work. We also leverage AI and digital tools to reduce manual effort and increase efficiency, helping us focus on tasks that truly matter.
Small efficiencies like these add up fast and free up time for more valuable work.
The Two-Minute Rule: Tackle Small Tasks Immediately
If something takes less than two minutes, we just do it instead of adding it to a to-do list first.
This stops tiny tasks from building up and stealing focus from bigger priorities. Simple, but very effective!
Time-Boxing & Deep Work: Protecting Focus Time
With constant messages, emails and meetings, deep work can feel impossible. We tackle this by:
- Blocking out focus time on our calendars and using ‘do not disturb’ mode on Teams to protect our attention.
- Using body doubling for accountability – working alongside someone (mostly virtually) helps maintain focus and momentum, even if we’re working on completely different tasks.
- Aligning our tasks with our natural energy levels - identifying peak energy times, like using mornings for deep work and afternoons for meetings, helps us schedule complex or creative tasks when our focus is at its highest.
Work Smarter, Not Longer: Setting Clear Boundaries
Productivity isn’t about doing more – it’s about doing the right things, efficiently. We avoid burnout by:
- Setting clear ‘busy’ and ‘available’ hours – there’s no expectation of always being online.
- Encouraging asynchronous work – we collaborate and respond on our own schedules, cutting down unnecessary meetings and allowing for deeper work.
- Building a ‘Stop Doing’ list – because eliminating unnecessary tasks is just as important as completing the necessary ones.
Final thoughts
Being productive isn’t about squeezing more into the day, it’s about making intentional choices about how we work.
By prioritising effectively, protecting focus time, and continuously improving, our team stays efficient, collaborative, and (most importantly) sane in a high-demand digital world. Use these productivity hacks and see how your productivity transforms!
– Written by Emily Prevatt, Executive Officer
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