If you’re an entrepreneur (or not), it’s possible you’re not working as hard as you can. However, if you want your startup to grow or if you want to move up in the company you work for, you must always commit to the tasks at hand. Failing to fulfill your duties can set your career back in more ways than you realize, so read on to find out if you need to change your professional habits.
1. Not Setting Priorities
When you fail to set priorities, it dramatically increases your chances of becoming bogged down by your tasks. Thankfully, Rhett Power lays out several effortless yet effective strategies to help you prioritize your assignments in an Inc. article titled “4 Bad Work Habits That Are Limiting Your Potential”:
Try to accomplish the larger or more difficult assignments in the morning when you are freshest and save the more repetitive ones for later in the day. If you receive assignments as the day is winding down, use the last five to ten minutes to prioritize for the next day. Lists are very helpful, and checking items off as you complete them is a real ego-booster.”
2. Overpromising and Under-Delivering
When working in a team, whether you’re the leader or not, you must always be held accountable for your actions. Overpromising and under-delivering not only prevents you from committing to your obligations, it makes you appear irresponsible and incompetent in front of your compeers. Here’s what Anthony Saladino, Co-Founder and CEO of Kitchen Cabinet Kings, has to say on the matter:
It is critical to always be mindful of promises made. When outlining plans/goals to your team, always set mini goals that are easily achievable. Hitting these goals consistently is easier, and the success of accomplishing these tasks will help your credibility and raise team morale.”
3. Not Doing What You Say You Will
An extension of the previous point, failing to follow through with your assignments can have a detrimental effect on your career growth. True, working in the dynamic environment of a startup often means having to take on multiple tasks and reprioritize when the situation requires it. However, this just means that executing all of your duties is that much more important. Just ask Zach Yungst, Co-Founder of Cater2.me:
It's understandable that with new companies things will change, but the more you can stay true to your word and properly set expectations, the more credibility you will have with your employees. Do what you say, and say what you mean. Having credibility with your employees not only boosts morale but will increase overall productivity and camaraderie.”
4. Checking Social Media During Your Break
While numerous studies have shown that taking short breaks during the workday can help you boost your energy and improve mood, checking your social media accounts is not the way to reinvigorate yourself. While seeing what your friends are up to may seem like minor distraction, it can have a devastating effect on your ability to follow through with your tasks. If you’re looking for an effective way to re-energize your mind and body, do what David McMillin recommends in an article titled “4 Bad Work Habits You Need To Break Now”:
You already spend countless hours behind your screen. Give your eyes a break, your legs some exercise and your mind a 15-minute vacation with a walk outside the office.”
Yes, some habits are harder to break than others. But if you’re willing to make a more concerted effort in maximizing your conscientiousness, your professional career, and your company, can only benefit from the change.
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(Bored businessman making phone calls image by Shutterstock)
