How to get more work done in the shortest time?

This question kept you awake last weekend. You read an article about a study that revealed France to be THE country with the shortest working hours. And they would end up as the most productive employees. You couldn't figure it out after you heard your brother's holiday in Japan. He was amazed at his (former) host, who had three jobs. He didn't forget to tell you about his experience at the railway transport. (He only heard the hum of the train engine and the electronic speaker announcing the next station, as most locals were hooked to their mobile phones.) It's a case-to-case basis, as culture plays a part. But the basics remain universal.

Let's put it in another way, as it will be better to enumerate it. Here are ten ways to be more productive in the workplace:

You should start with the most challenging task. It's not right to do it last, as there's no guarantee that your energy level is high during the later hours (in the workplace). Assuming you get out of your bed early, perform your morning exercise, and have a good breakfast, then there won't be any other reason not to do it right away. You'll never know how your (working) day will turn out, so better do it early.

Adopt a can-do attitude. If you don't, then it will be likely that you won't finish it on time. In case you have to do it the following day, then you might have to think of a good excuse. You might want to consider your romantic aspirations (or love life), which seems cold as ice.

Don't hesitate to seek assistance from your colleagues. It's not a sign of incompetency. On the contrary, this might be a start of a harmonious relationship. Don't get too excited, though. It doesn't mean you'll be lifelong friends.

Be resourceful. In case you're stuck, for whatever reasons, then find other ways to keep yourself occupied. You might have noticed the dust gathering on your table. You were unable to delete the unnecessary e-mails in your inbox. You didn't pay attention to your litter. These tasks will make you feel good, which will motivate you to do more important ones.

Multitasking is for experts. It will be better to do one task at a time, as your undivided focus is important. And even the experts will discourage you from doing many tasks at the same time.

Know yourself. Try to observe your habits. If you found your rhythm in the morning, then it will be sensible to do the tasks during that time of the day. If it's the afternoon, then you know what you should do next. If you still haven't figured it out, then a cup of coffee may help you.

Don't be too efficient. You're not a robot. Your body can suffer from stress. It's about being efficient whiled doing the most challenging task. Put it in another way, you must be on your A game when there are many tasks that need to be done.

Distraction can help you achieve the goal. You shouldn't panic when you're distracted, as this will remind you of what you miss (or what you have done wrong). It's still early, so you can go back and look it over.

You must be honest with yourself. Read the above items, and then assess yourself. You don't have to be tough on yourself, as the workplace is not the place that breeds world-class athletes. Know which areas you can improve. Don't forget how your body can respond to it.

Ignore this post. If you think that the previous items won't work at all, then think of other ways. And let us know about it.