Working smarter starts with understanding not only what you are supposed to be doing, but also how your work impacts those around you.

How are you connected to those around you?

Who depends on your work products?

How is their work impacted if you don’t complete your tasks?

Similarly, is your work progress dependent on someone else?

How do you manage both up and down in your organization?

Does your office culture support conversations across silos?

If not, how can you respectfully talk to others outside your organization that you may depend on?

All of these questions must be considered if one wants to work smarter, not just harder. With a little reflection, working smarter can become second nature.