As a technical leader, you likely have a lot on your plate. Between managing your team, staying on top of industry trends, and making important business decisions, it can be easy to get overwhelmed and lose sight of the small, daily habits that can help you be more effective and successful in your role.
Here are five daily habits that can help you become a more effective technical leader:
1. Start your day with a clear focus.
Before you dive into your work, take a few minutes to set clear goals for the day. This can help you prioritize your tasks and ensure that you stay on track. Consider using a planner or to-do list to help you keep track of your goals and progress. I try to use time-block scheduling and other practices associated with the Deep Work discipline. However, this doesn’t always go as planned. This is how my first attempt went.
2. Exercise regularly
Exercise is not only good for your physical health, but it can also improve your mental clarity and productivity. Make time for regular physical activity, whether it’s a morning run, a yoga class, or a quick workout at the gym. Even simple exercise activity throughut the day helps. For example, get a stand up desk and make sure you use it throughout the day
3. Take regular breaks
It’s important to take breaks throughout the day to rest and recharge. This can help prevent burnout and improve your overall well-being. Consider setting aside a few minutes every hour or so to step away from your work and take a short walk or do some stretching.
4. Stay organized
A cluttered desk or inbox can lead to increased stress and decreased productivity. Make an effort to stay organized by regularly cleaning up your workspace and using tools like folders and labels to keep your emails and documents in order. Also, get your inbox under control. Having 14,312 unread messages is not a good look.
5. Stay connected with your team
As a technical leader, it’s important to stay connected with your team and stay in the loop on what’s happening in your company. Make an effort to schedule regular check-ins with your team members and encourage open communication. This can help improve morale and foster a positive work environment.
By incorporating these habits into your daily routine, you can become a more effective and successful technical leader. Remember, it’s the small, daily actions that add up to big results over time. So don’t underestimate the power of these simple habits and their potential to help you achieve your goals.