Working in one of the most innovative and fast-paced fields of the modern day can seem daunting at times. In moments where tasks have built up and the load is overwhelming, it is important to set achievable goals for yourself so that you can ensure you, your team, and your project are receiving your maximum effort and attention. Below are a few ways to set goals for yourself to create an effective experience:
1. Set attainable goals: while this might seem rudimentary, but ensuring a reasonable amount of work gets dedicated to one task at a time improves the success of your project. Attainable daily goals are the key to collaborative work.
2. Clear communication and project management across your team: this is key in establishing goal expectations, deadlines, and workflow. Be sure tasks are clearly delineated so each member knows how to maximize their time.
3. Know what makes a good goal: your goals should meet certain criteria. Is it a reasonably attainable goal? Is it specific? How will you know you’re making progress? Is there a deadline?
4. Switch tasks: if working on a project is starting to feel stale, move to another one or take a quick break. Sometimes that’s all takes for a re-energized, fresher perspective.
5. Track your progress: and be sure to share it with your team members. This one may seem obvious, but wasting time checking on where you left off with a task can derail your productivity.
6. Take care of yourself: one of the most overlooked factors when working on a big new project is self care. Step away from your work space periodically to take a walk or anything that gets your mind off of your task. Remember, your project won’t get done if you don’t take care of yourself.
7. Call in reinforcements: need help? Just ask. If you’re having trouble finding the answers, you can save time by asking a teammate. Sometimes working together can get the job done faster, and can illuminate more efficient problem solving moving forward.
8. Talk to your boss: need clarity? Chatting with your boss about what’s expected of you will convey that you care about how you can support them on the job at hand, which will go a long way.
9. Work smart, not hard: sometimes working very hard on one goal can still set you back, so it is important to work smart. By working smart, you can realize that you sometimes have to break away from a daily goal you set for yourself so you can focus on another part of your project. Progress is still progress, even if it doesn’t adhere to your schedule.
10. Know when to say no: if you feel like you’re getting distracted by other requests, know when to say no, and which requests align with your current goals. Taking on more than you can handle might seem admirable, but sometimes it can be overly ambitious, and cause you to get lost in the weeds and behind on your deadlines.