So many things to do, so little time.

In a world where things move at rapid pace and people get impatient waiting for anything longer than 5 seconds, it feels like there are tons of things on our plates.

There’s that urgent email we need to get back to, a project that needs finishing, and of course, time off with friends and family (if there’s even time left).

The more work we have in front of us, the easier it is to get into a frantic state of mind.

I noticed that busy people often work on tasks that they think need to be done, but are actually counterproductive. I’ve managed to pinpoint these habits in my own life and replace them with better habits.

Here are a few things you should stop doing if you want to get more done:

1. Trying to do everything at once

Do you ever see those people who are completely frazzled?

They’re pulling their hair, running from place to place, and barely have time to breathe. It’s like they’re trying to do everything and completely panicking.

I used to think people like this got more done. That is, until I saw their results. I then realized that trying to do everything prevents you from getting really good at anything.

Trying to do everything is an indicator of lack of decisiveness, not ambition. So if you want to become an expert at something, it means saying no to other opportunities – at least for now.

For instance, top ranked tennis player Serena Williams is into fashion and has her own clothing line. But when she first started out, she focused all her energy on becoming the top female tennis player. Her fashion business came later.

Become the best in one area, and then branch out later.

2. Micromanaging everything

Micromanagement is a typical issue for perfectionists who demand that everything be done exactly how they want it. They frequently interfere with other people’s work and attempt tasks that another person might have completed more quickly.

The worst part of micromanaging is that it makes other individuals feel oppressed and angry that their efforts aren’t valued.

Try to concentrate more on the big picture rather than going over each and every little thing. Allow others to make certain decisions (to a certain extent) by letting go of the reins. Your wellbeing and health will improve.

When you learn to let go of some things, you’ll find that you can accomplish more of your goals.

3. Just winging it

I recall having to prepare presentations for the class in my earlier years of education. Someone would invariably declare, “I’m just going to wing it!”

Most likely, that student’s performance wasn’t at the top of the class. The person wasn’t exactly winging it, even if they were.

Proactive individuals achieve more than those who are reactive. To provide a faultless performance when the time comes, they practise daily and constantly prepare.

I prefer to use the Page Turner Technique the night before to get ready for the following day. Even when things get busy, I manage to stay organised and composed by doing this.

If you want to excel, don’t wing it. Practice instead.

4. Not giving yourself any free time

It’s a prevalent misperception that successful individuals are always working. They have no time for entertainment or games.

Nothing is more false than it is.

People that are innovative and creative frequently need free time to explore new ideas. They might think about their challenges and view them from a fresh angle by taking some time to unwind.

Sleep, according to Arianna Huffington, is the key to success. We so frequently believe that not having any downtime is something to be proud of. Instead, we ought to consider obtaining more sleep in order to recharge, improve our moods, and accomplish more.

Try taking a break from your work if you want to feel renewed and creative.

5. Skipping lunch

A friend bragged to me the other day that she had worked for 18 hours a day, non-stop. She revealed that she frequently forgets to eat because she’s so busy.

On the other hand, another friend gets lots of sleep and cooks his own food. He has more spare time and energy for hobbies. Guess who burned out eventually?

As a result of lower energy and attention levels caused by skipping meals, you accomplish less work in an hour. Additionally, it causes an increase in appetites for quick-fix meals like junk food and sweets.

I find that preparing my lunch beforehand helps to set up my day right so that I don’t have to look around for something unhealthy to quickly satisfy my hunger. It also gives me one less thing to worry about.