Large commercial planes can weigh hundreds of thousands of pounds, yet soar through the sky seemingly effortlessly. The pilots of those aircraft need a few simple productivity tips and tools to help them. From checklists to having an adequate amount of rest, these tips we can use as well!
Productivity Tips: Checklists
Checklists in aviation are the most critical things that must be done is sequence for safe flight. In a given flight sequence their might be several different checklists that might be performed to be ready. These checklists create a repeatable process that any pilot can predict and practice to be ready to fly.
In terms of productivity we can use checklists two different ways. The first is taking your project charter and creating a list of all the parts that should be double checked to make sure the task is complete with all the details. The second being if we have repeatable processes then we can create a process checklist. Then we have a tool we can train others to use if needed and be able to delegate!
Productivity Tips: Preflight Routine
In the case of a process that requires multiple checklists having a routine is crucial. For pilots a preflight routine helps make sure that each aspect of the aircraft is correctly checked. From front to back, top to bottom, inside and out, planes are checked to be ready to fly.
When you sit down for a time block to do deep work, when was the last time you checked to make sure you had everything you need? Have you ever “preflighted” your work area to make sure you’re ready? It can mean the difference between streamlined progress and repeated interruption looking for what you need, or unanticipated software updates!
Productivity Tips: Rest
Did you know that the FAA actually limits that amount of time that a pilot can fly each month and sets strict rules for rest prior to flying? As a basic condition of being ready to handle the demands, a pilot needs to have had several consecutive hours of rest. The amount of rest needed depends on how many flight hours are scheduled.
When was the last time you thought about how much rest you got prior to a big task or presentation? While we might not have as strict of rules as the ones laid out by the FAA, its still an important part of being productive. Even taking some rest mid day for a few minutes is recommended by Michigan State University!
