The best way to use time efficiently

As you may of noticed, I said “way” not ways. Sure there are numerous ways to insure you utilize your time wisely; however, I wanted to point out the method that I feel works best for me. Like I have stated in Get Organized… Leads to Productivity, I am huge neat freak and many times that causes me to not just clean but also reorganize my current set-up. There have been times when I tried to stuff as much as I could in one area, kept it simple with just the bare necessities, and everything in between. As I have spent time in these different settings, I have noticed various degrees of production that has come out of each one.

Sleak and Airy

This set-up basically consists of the minimal necessities to get the job done. All you might have here is a computer/laptop, maybe some pens, paper, and/or printer. I usually enter this phase directly after a set-up that contains tons of equipment. I feel the need to just get rid of everything except for the computer. On the other hand, this organization method tends to always be my least favorite. There are those that need piece and quiet in order to work and that is definitely not me, so this set-up usually doesn’t last too long.

Efficiency degree

Usually this method tends to be the most efficient because there are only so many things you can do. You are isolated in your workspace with just your work. Like I said before, this method gets boring and dull for me pretty quickly. I am most productive when I have noise and activity around me. This type of environment is best suited for people who just want to get their work done and move on with their lives. Whenever I am in this situation I find that I can focus pretty easily, but I begin roaming more often because what I need/want is not in the immediate area.

The Moderate Worker

Usually the middle of the road type of organization, this is probably the norm situation for most people. The work area contains everything you would have in “sleak and airy” environment, but in addition you could have maybe one more piece of equipment (ie television). Through this set-up, the extras would usually fill the need of entertainment or expediency. For me the area would include a laptop and a television.

Efficiency degree

This atmosphere is best for those that may like to spend more leisure time in their work area. Although it may take a little longer to get the job done compared to “sleak and airy,” but the user enjoys spending the extra time being in their space. Basically you are able to get the job done, while having the option of detouring your attention.

The Tech Workshop

Simply put this set-up will contain almost everything you may or may not need. There are multiple monitors, laptops, televisions, little add-on gadgets. Basically most free time will probably want to be spent here and for a long time. I am currently in this type of set-up right now, which includes:

• 2 Laptops (HP Pavilion 14 in. and 17 in.)
• 1 extra flat 19 in. wide screen LCD; connected to a laptop to create a dual screen effect
• 2 Televisions (LG 32 in. 1080I and 14 in. Toshiba)
• XBOX 360

I can basically do almost anything I want here. I love this set-up although it could take some time to keep everything nice and tidy.

Efficiency degree

The amount of work that can be done with this set-up is solely dependent on the user and their ability to keep focused among many distractions. It is also the most pursued for those that have a short attention span. One of the main problems I have come across is the ability to lose focus or waste time. When in this environment it can be very easy to fall into the trap of not moving. When you have free time you just want to come to this area, but you aren’t sure what you really want to do. The complication with this is that you can lose the designation of a “work place.” Now every time you enter this “zone” your brain is confused on whether it is supposed to work or have fun. You might not truly understand this concept until you have experienced it.

Another thing to consider is where physically is your workspace located. If we are talking about the area in your house, then does it have its own room? Are you in the basement? This should also be examined.

Bringing all together

Whether you are trying to monetize a website, manage a team, or even developing a work-out regiment, you always try to mix and match or try out new set-ups. Not every situation works for everybody, and you may need to go through many before you find what works best. The same is true when working. People try to develop a solid routine that will get them from point A to B and may not be getting anything right; however, many times they might be overlooking the environment or set-up that A to B is taking place in.

So what works best for you? Does your set-up fit in any of the three categories or do you think it has its own?