Create a Routine for Everyday Tasks
If you do the same tasks every week, give them a regular time instead of figuring them out as you go.
Maybe you check supplies on the same day each week, review invoices before heading home, or put together the next schedule every Thursday. Once those tasks have a place in your routine, you don’t have to keep wondering when you will get to them.
You can also automate tasks when it makes sense. A 2024 Duke University survey found about 60% of companies use automation tools in their workflows to improve output and reduce labor costs.
The same idea can simplify everyday work. Opening the store, cleaning equipment, counting the register, or closing up can follow the same steps each time.
Having a routine gives you and your teammates a clearer idea of what needs to happen, without having to figure it out from scratch every day.
Stop Starting From Scratch
If you find yourself explaining the same thing more than once or repeating a process, it may be worth writing it down instead of keeping all the steps in your head.
A simple checklist or template can give you a ready-made starting point. You might use one for weekly schedules, supply orders, new employee training, or opening and closing duties. Free templates are also available through Smartsheet and Microsoft Word.
A printed sheet, shared note, or basic document can do the job.
The bigger benefit is that your team can use the same information without coming back to you with every question. That gives you one less thing to explain and lets everyone get back to work.
The next time you find yourself explaining a task for the second or third time, that may be a good sign that it is time to write it down.
Make the Same Decision Only Once
How often do you answer the same questions?
When should we reorder this item?
When should next week’s schedule go up?
What should we do if a customer wants to return something?
Who handles the problem if I am not here?
If you already know the answer, make it a simple rule your team can follow.
For example, you could reorder an item whenever there are fewer than 10 left on the shelf. You could post next week’s schedule every Thursday. You could also decide that the shift manager handles returns when you are not available.
You can always change a rule if it’s not working. For now, everyone knows what to do, and you have one less thing to figure out.
Let Your Team Handle More
If everyone comes to you with every little question, it can be hard to get your own work done.
Look at the tasks you handle each week and ask yourself: Does this really need to be done by me?
You might have someone keep track of supplies, help with the weekly schedule, or ensure the closing checklist is finished. Start with one responsibility, explain how you want it handled, and give that person a chance to learn.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has a starter guide with ideas for tasks you can delegate.
It may take time to get used to sharing responsibilities, but it can lighten your workload and help your teammates feel more confident in their roles.
Make Room for the Decisions That Matter
You will always have decisions to make. The goal is to stop spending time on the same ones over and over.
Simple routines, clear rules, and sharing responsibilities can take some of that work off your plate.
Health coverage is a decision worth getting out of the way, especially when it gives your team access to care and gives you one less thing to worry about.
HealthChoice of Michigan has helped eligible businesses in Wayne and Oakland Counties provide health coverage for more than 30 years.
Our Small Business health plan offers a $270 fixed rate per employee, $0 deductibles, no hidden service costs, the same rate regardless of age or gender, optional dental and vision coverage, access to trusted Metro Detroit providers, and online enrollment year-round.