Work Smarter Not Harder Book Summary - Work Smarter Not Harder Book explained in key points
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Work Smarter Not Harder summary

The Blinkist Team

Find more productivity by doing fewer things.

4.3 (10 ratings)
14 mins

Brief summary

Work Smarter, Not Harder by The Blinkist Team is a guide that outlines practical techniques to increase productivity and achieve better results by focusing on effectiveness rather than excessive effort.

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    Work Smarter Not Harder
    Summary of 6 key ideas

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    Problem and Promise

    It’s easy to make the calculation that if you want more from your work, you should work more.

    But, while this simple equation certainly works early on, there comes a point of diminishing returns. In this Blinkist Article we’re going to explore a few ideas for how to change that equation and help you work smarter, not harder. 

    Before we dive in, let me clarify what we’re doing here. We've pulled the choice bits from 5 of our top sources to highlight some evergreen truths, and bust a couple of myths around the topic of productivity. Our goal? To quickly get you the key ideas to help you get on the path to working smarter. Each brings a different perspective, which we’ve grouped into three focus areas: prioritization, nurturing productivity, and environment. 

    TL;DR 

    Here’s the Article in a nutshell

    Productivity is not on a 1-to-1 input/output scale with work. It’s the fruit of a lot of different inputs that have to be nurtured in order to reap the benefits. Of course, you can squeeze some extra productivity out by working longer hours. But, eventually, your ability to be productive will be diminished.

    So, the bottom line: First – we are not machines, we are organisms. This means we don’t increase productivity simply by working longer. Rather, we do so by nurturing the right inputs in a conducive environment. 

    Second – focus. Trying to do everything is a sure fire way to actually do nothing. So do less and do it well. 

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    Key ideas in Work Smarter Not Harder

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    What is Work Smarter Not Harder about?

    Working more doesn't always equate to increased productivity; instead, nurturing the right inputs in a conducive environment, and focusing on doing fewer things excellently, yields better results. This article uncovers the key strategies and insights for achieving smarter, not harder, work habits.

    Work Smarter Not Harder Review

    Work Smarter Not Harder delivers essential strategies for optimizing productivity and efficiency in the workplace. Here's why this book is a valuable read:

    • Provides practical techniques that help streamline tasks and maximize output, resulting in improved performance and less burnout.
    • Empowers readers with strategic approaches to prioritize tasks effectively and achieve their goals with greater ease and effectiveness.
    • By offering innovative solutions to common workplace challenges, the book ensures an engaging and insightful read, far from dullness.

    Who should read Work Smarter Not Harder?

    • Anyone who want to work more effectively
    • People who feel busy but not productive
    • Anyone who wants to know how to harness the power of their environment

    About the Author

    This multi-sourced Article was created by the Content Team at Blinkist based on the main ideas from How Multitasking Affects Productivity and Brain Health by  Kendra Cherry, MSEd on verywellmind; How a nonlinear workday might help you get more done by Stephanie Vozza on fastcompany; Psychologist Suggests 3 Ways To Work Smarter, Not Harder by Mark Travers on Forbes; Seven Habits that Seem Lazy (but Actually Let You Get More Done) by Scott H Young on scotthyoung; and The Ivy Lee Method: The Daily Routine Experts Recommend for Peak Productivity by James Clear on jamesclear.

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    Work Smarter Not Harder FAQs 

    What is the main message of Work Smarter Not Harder?

    The main message of Work Smarter Not Harder is optimizing productivity and efficiency in work and life.

    How long does it take to read Work Smarter Not Harder?

    Reading Work Smarter Not Harder takes a few hours, but the Blinkist summary can be read in about 15 minutes.

    Is Work Smarter Not Harder a good book? Is it worth reading?

    Work Smarter Not Harder is a must-read for practical tips on enhancing productivity. It offers actionable advice for efficient work habits.

    Who is the author of Work Smarter Not Harder?

    The author of Work Smarter Not Harder is not specified in the provided data.

    What to read after Work Smarter Not Harder?

    If you're wondering what to read next after Work Smarter Not Harder, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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    • Breaking the Cycle by George N. Collins with Andrew Adleman
    • The Art of Reading Minds by Henrik Fexeus
    • Built with Purpose by Bill Roark
    • The Science of Getting Started by Patrick King
    • New Happy by Stephanie Harrison
    • The 5 AM Club by Robin Sharma
    • In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts by Gabor Maté
    • Ask by Jeff Wetzler