Top tips: The secret to a better workday? It’s in the little things
Top tips is a weekly column where we highlight what’s trending in the tech world and list ways to explore these trends. This week, we’ll see how fixing small inconveniences at work can make things easier and help us get more done.
“It is often the small steps, not the giant leaps, that bring about the most lasting change.” – Queen Elizabeth II
It's the little changes in life that bring lasting effects. Small, incremental improvements often add to meaningful comfort over time. It could be as simple as arranging your clothes for the next day, or it could be saying a positive affirmation or having a healthy breakfast; these small steps might ease your hectic schedule and set a positive tone for the day.
Similarly, there are simple steps you can take at work to make your daily routine smoother. If we try to find smart ways to work, many small inconveniences can be avoided. I don’t know all of them and can’t cover everything here, but here are a few tips that might help if approached with a bit of thought.
1. Name and arrange your bookmarks
If you're like me, clicking your bookmarks icon opens a cluttered list of links, and finding the one you need becomes a task. Sometimes, it feels easier to Google it again than scroll through the mess.
That’s your cue to organize.
Start by giving your bookmarks clear, concise names. For example, rename "Content Worksheet MEA 2025" to just "Worksheet." Group related links into folders: project-related links in one, communication tools in another, and travel-related links in a third. Customize it however you like, but this small step can be a true life-saver when you need to find something fast.
2. Record your achievements
This might sound cheesy, but it works: Track your small wins.
Whether you impressed a customer with a detailed demo or delivered a project on time, write it down. Keep a log of your achievements and revisit it occasionally. It boosts your confidence and helps combat self-doubt at work.
When faced with a complex task, looking back at what you've already accomplished reminds you that you've tackled challenges before and can do it again. This practice also comes in handy during performance reviews or salary discussions, as you'll have tangible proof of your contributions.
3. Respond to emails at designated times
We all know how distracting notifications can be. The same goes for email.
Set specific times during the day to check and respond to emails. If you're constantly toggling between tasks and emails, your focus gets fragmented. Try turning off email notifications and closing the tab when you're not actively checking it.
Of course, this won’t work for everyone; some roles require quick responses. If that’s the case for you, try to at least structure your day so emails don’t dominate your entire workflow.
4. Keep a clean desk
A clean space leads to a clear mind. Keep your work desk tidy. Clear away trash when you leave your desk and avoid unnecessary clutter. Get rid of redundant items like calendars (since that information is already available on your laptop) or unused gadgets.
Personalize your space, but keep it minimal. If possible, keep a small trash can nearby so you can empty it regularly. Another habit you could learn to do on autopilot is to tidy your desk at the end of your workday so you return to a clean, calm space the next morning.
5. Start with small tasks
We’ve all had those mornings when we arrive at work feeling sluggish and immediately reach for coffee instead of starting our day.
If you find it hard to begin, try tackling a small task first. It helps you ease into work mode and builds momentum for larger tasks. This approach is especially helpful on days when you're feeling unmotivated or tired.
A final word
In our everyday lives, small improvements can make a big difference. When we identify what helps us function better, our lives become smoother. When we don’t, even the simplest tasks can feel like a burden.
In our busy, tiring routines, we need to find smart ways to work and live better, whether it’s keeping a clean desk that sets a calm tone for the day, starting with small tasks to build momentum, organizing bookmarks so links are easier to find, responding to emails on a schedule, or revisiting our past achievements to stay motivated.
These small steps may seem minor, but they can have a big impact on your day and your life. So why not find more of them? Pay attention to what works for you, make small tweaks, and build on those wins. In the end, it’s not about doing more but doing what matters—smarter, not harder.