I just read an article stating the workforce is working over 40 hours on a regular basis, and even working over 60 hours regularly. This might be true that we find ourselves working way after closing time, or taking work home. Some have stated they are working over 60+ hours a week and still find they are falling behind.
Is it that our work load has increased or are we just wasting more time on non-work related tasks? Here are some questions you need to ask yourself to help find the answer:
- How many times do you check your personal email?
- How many times do you check work email?
- Do you read or send text messages while working?
- Do you take personal calls on your cell phone at work?
- How many hours after work are you on the phone?
- How many times a day are you on Twitter, Facebook, or other social media?
- How often do you surf the web for non-work related items?
Keep track of the amount of time you take on the above questions for a week. Some of you may be amazed at the amount of time you spend doing non-productive tasks. I found out I was spending at least 20 – 25 hours a week after work on email, Facebook or just surfing the web for crap. Since I grew up without most of the technology that is out, I never got into a habit of doing personal tasks at work. My thought is the company is paying me to do their work, not my own. But at home this is a different story.
In the past few years I have seen people spending less time working, and more time doing personal tasks. I have also seen people taking longer lunches, extended breaks, or smoking behind the building every 20 minutes. I can vouch for the smoking part as I was a smoker for over 30 years, but quit 5 years ago. By just quitting smoking I find I have a lot more time to get my work done within the 40 hour window.
I also have taken a few time management classes to help manage my time at work and home. Not that this is a must do, but if you have a problem managing your time this might help.
The big hit item here is the technology!! If you can cut back on the amount of time you spend talking on the phone, texting, emailing, and other social media you will find you have more than enough time to get everything done within 40 hours.
Hope these words of wisdom help you in your life.