Minimalism is an old hat. Theoretically, everyone knows how reduction works, and yet people would rather complain about stress and being overwhelmed than finally banish the time guzzlers.
In this post, I’ll show you tips to make downsizing really happen in the workplace. Let’s go…
Distractions rob working time
Minimalism in the office can of course mean clearing out the desk and the cupboards. But it’s much more about getting rid of ingrained rituals and bad habits. With the right priorities and working methods, there’s suddenly a lot more room on the calendar.
When you stop wasting time on the wrong distractions and focus on the essentials according to the minimalist concept, you gain time and freedom.
Plus, you’ll be able to take care of the things that are your real responsibilities: leading your team and your own career.
Downsizing succeeds with these tips:
1. Reduce accessibility
One of the biggest time wasters is the permanent accessibility in countless communication systems. Don’t be permanently available everywhere, and above all, don’t always answer everyone immediately. Schedule “digital minimalist” work blocks where you don’t respond to chats and emails. You will work much more effectively.
For me, that’s the time between 7 and 11 in the morning. At this time I can work very efficiently. Emails and phone calls do not take place during this time.
2. Mail processing for minimalists
Most managers dream in vain of an empty inbox. But you can certainly minimize the chaos. Reduce your inboxes to a maximum of three to five, and work with rules and folders. Reduce your newsletters and info mails to a minimum and move them directly into folders by rule. This way you will be less distracted. Answer only simple and important emails immediately. Plan processing periods for the more demanding replies.
My 3 main folders in the mailbox are “Important”, “Less important” and “Free time”.
Important: Everything that doesn’t tolerate procrastination ends up here. These mails are answered and processed first.
Less important: I only deal with these mails when the first mailbox has been processed.
Free time: Here I get newsletters that I might have a look at during my coffee break. But also everything else that has no priority or just gives me new ideas.
3. It works without social media
If it’s not part of your job to maintain social media accounts for your business, save the fun for your free time. There’s rarely much going on across all channels. Not to mention effective. Ask yourself what you really need the account for and what measurable benefits you’ll get from it. If the bottom line is nothing more than distraction, entertainment, and a nice glow, get rid of any accounts that aren’t doing anything. You should move private communication to your free time anyway.
4. Gadgets and other gimmicks
The latest technology, a cool tool for every nonsense and a “totally useful app.” Hand on heart: how much time do you fritter away managing, trying out and understanding your tech and digital bells and whistles? Some of that can go. Really!
My approach: Whenever I download a new app to try it out (in my spare time), I delete another app at the same time. If it turns out that the new app is not useful enough for me either, I delete it immediately. This way, the number of apps I have is reduced and I only have what I really need on my smartphone.
5. Clean out and leave your desk empty
Unless you’re a squirrel, stop collecting things in every storage space, no matter how tiny. Other than your computer, a phone, a few papers, and stationery, you need almost nothing in your workspace. Leave it at that. Take away used dishes directly, don’t collect mail or souvenirs, gifts or other unnecessary stuff.