The 3 Proactive Prioritization Principles For Young Engineers (So You Don’t Work 40+ Hours Per Week)
Over the last four years, a few simple actions have allowed me to get more done in less time.
Steal these simple principles so you can regain control of your work:
THE PARETO PRINCIPLE
The Pareto principle states that 80% of the results come from 20% of the actions. This principle is one of the reasons I can do so many things at and outside of work.
Focus on the areas of work that have the most significant impact and create rules for yourself to minimize distractions like constantly checking email.
THE THREE RS
Whenever you come across a new decision, a unique opportunity, or a new project request, ask yourself the following questions:
- What is Required of me?
- What gives me the greatest Return?
- What is most Rewarding?
Use these questions to clarify what needs to be accomplished and where you need to start.
MAKE ROOM FOR MARGIN
In engineering, very few projects go according to plan.
If you fail to plan, you plan for failure
Use Parkinson’s law: work expands so that it fills the time available for its completion.
Unless you intentionally create a margin for the critical projects, you may always have issues navigating complex projects. It is vital to carve time for deep focus sessions and identify the activities that will move the project forward.
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