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Entrepreneur
20 hours ago
- Business
- Entrepreneur
Why Efficiency Matters and How to Make Every Workday Count
Time is the most valuable resource in the world today — and it always has been. Whether you are an entrepreneur running your own business or an employee navigating your... This story originally appeared on Calendar Time is the most valuable resource in the world today — and it always has been. Whether you are an entrepreneur running your own business or an employee navigating your daily tasks, finding ways to increase efficiency can make a big difference to your workday and long-term success. Being efficient doesn't only mean you're getting things done faster. It's about delegating your own time, concentrating on what will yield the most meaningful results in your day, as well as being quick about it. Poor time management and wasted efforts drain motivation and cause unnecessary frustrations. The good news is that with a little awareness and the right strategies, you can improve your work efficiency and make every workday count. Why Workplace Efficiency Matters Workplace efficiency is about more than just completing tasks. It's about working smarter and minimizing distractions. On average, employees spend only about 60% of their workday on productive tasks. The rest of the time is spent on non-productive activities, such as emails or social media. This productivity gap is a glaring indication that there is room for improvement. When you streamline your processes, you complete tasks more efficiently and with greater focus. This gives you more free time, less stress, and ultimately, better quality of work. Additionally, as efficiency improves, so does job satisfaction. Knowing you're using your time wisely reduces stress and enhances your sense of purpose and accomplishment. Moreover, efficient work habits lead to long-term success. As you develop a routine that values time management, you create a cycle of continuous improvement. Your personal development and career progression become intertwined with a strong foundation of discipline and innovative strategies. Time Wasting Habits The first step in making every workday count is to identify what holds you back from being more efficient. Time-wasting habits can often go unnoticed, but once identified, they can be addressed and corrected. Procrastination: It's easy to put off complicated or tedious tasks, but this only increases stress and pressure later. Procrastination often leads to last-minute scrambling and lower-quality work. Multitasking: Contrary to popular belief, multitasking can reduce productivity. Switching between tasks can reduce cognitive efficiency by up to 40%. That's big. Focusing on one task at a time allows you to work more effectively and produce better results. Lack of Prioritization: Without a clear sense of what's essential, you may waste time on low-priority tasks that don't move you towards your bigger goals. Prioritizing tasks ensures your energy is spent where it matters most. Constantly Checking Email or Social Media: It's easy to check emails and social media every few minutes. These distractions break your focus and eat up valuable time. Disorganization: Clutter, whether physical or digital, can reduce your ability to focus. Searching for files, emails, or documents can waste time and add unnecessary stress to your day. To optimize your workday, take some time to reflect on your habits. Identify the causes of inefficiency and take the necessary steps to minimize these distractions. If necessary, try deleting social media apps from your phone for a few days and see how it affects your productivity. You'd be surprised how much time you can win back by removing a few small things from your life. Strategies to Make Every Workday Count Now that we've discussed why efficiency matters and identified common pitfalls, let's look at strategies to make your workdays more productive and meaningful. 1. Set Clear Goals for the Day Start each day by outlining your top priorities. Knowing exactly what you need to achieve helps you stay on track and focused. This can be done with a simple to-do list or through a digital scheduling tool like Calendar, which can help you visualize your day and track your progress. Setting clear goals prevents you from getting sidetracked and ensures you're working toward meaningful outcomes. 2. Use Time Blocks to Stay Focused Time blocking is a highly effective method for increasing productivity. Instead of constantly switching between tasks, allocate specific blocks of time for different activities. For example, you could dedicate an hour in the morning to focused work, followed by a 15-minute break, and then another task. In creating these structured blocks of time, you'll inevitably reduce the temptation to multitask. Incorporating tools like Google Calendar or Microsoft Calendar into your workflow can help you visualize your time and stay committed to your time blocks. These tools allow you to set reminders and make adjustments as needed. 3. Prioritize Your Tasks Not all tasks are created equal. Some activities are critical to achieving your goals, while others may be less important. The Eisenhower Matrix is a well-established time management tool that helps you prioritize tasks based on their urgency and importance. It enables you to distinguish between functions that are: Important (but not urgent) Urgent (but not important) Both important and urgent Neither important nor urgent This way, you focus on what truly matters. 4. Limit Distractions Distractions are the arch-enemy of efficiency. Whether it's a ringing phone, a noisy environment, or endless notifications, distractions can cause you to lose focus and waste valuable time. To counteract this, create a designated workspace that is free from unnecessary interruptions. Use apps to restrict websites and mute notifications during critical work periods. Managing your digital distractions can greatly impact the quality of your work and the time you spend on it. 5. Automate Repetitive Tasks Automation is a game-changer that increases work efficiency. There are numerous tools available to automate repetitive tasks, including setting up automatic reminders, email filters, and scheduling software. Letting tools like Calendar manage your meetings or send reminders can free up time to focus on more critical tasks. These tools can even help you stay organized by syncing appointments and reminders across your team. 6. Take Breaks to Recharge It may seem counterintuitive, but taking regular breaks actually increases efficiency. Taking short breaks here and there can help clear your mind and increase productivity. Even if it's something as short as a 5-minute walk, breaks give your brain a chance to reset and come back to work with renewed energy. Using tools like Pomodoro timers can help you structure your workday by focusing for 25 minutes at a time and then taking a 5-minute break. 7. End the Day with Reflection At the end of each workday, take a few minutes to reflect on what you achieved and what you can improve for the next day. Tracking your progress will help you realize where you're succeeding and where you need to adjust your strategies. This reflection not only enables you to learn from each day but also ensures your workdays become more efficient. Scheduling Tools and Efficiency Scheduling tools are key to efficiency. Calendar apps, such as Calendar, Google Calendar, and Microsoft Calendar, help you stay organized and visualize your daily schedule. These tools eliminate manual tracking and reduce the chance of forgetting important tasks or meetings. With any of these tools, you can plan your day more effectively and ensure you allocate time to high-priority activities. They also allow you to collaborate with your team, making team scheduling much easier. How Will You Make Your Workflow More Efficient? Efficiency is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It's about finding what works for you and committing to continuous improvement. If you eliminate time-wasting habits and use a calendar to optimize your daily schedule, you can make every workday count. When you focus on efficiency, you not only increase your productivity but also enhance your job satisfaction and set yourself up for long-term success. So, start making small changes today and watch your workdays become more productive and meaningful. Featured Image Credit: Photo by Kampus Production; Pexels The post Why Efficiency Matters and How to Make Every Workday Count appeared first on Calendar.
Entrepreneur
3 days ago
- General
- Entrepreneur
Halfway There: Why June 1st is Your Secret Weapon for Crushing Those New Year's Resolutions
We've all been there. It's January 1, and we're making bold resolutions — eat healthier, save more, exercise more, spend less time on screens. It is common, however, for those... This story originally appeared on Calendar We've all been there. It's January 1, and we're making bold resolutions — eat healthier, save more, exercise more, spend less time on screens. It is common, however, for those goals to seem distant by the time summer rolls around. This is why New Year's Resolution Recommitment Day is observed annually on June 1. With refreshed energy and clarity, it's the perfect midyear checkpoint for setting, reflecting on, and reigniting your goals. But remember. It's okay if your resolutions have failed. You're not alone. According to research, about 80% of people abandon their New Year's resolutions by February. The truth is that long-term change rarely follows a straight path. As Recommitment Day reminds us, progress is always possible, and success is not about never falling off track but about getting back on it. This article will discuss why this day is so important, why resolutions fail, and how to build a powerful midyear recommitment strategy that works. Why This Midyear Recommitment Isn't Just a Good Idea, It's Essential New Year's resolutions are often ambitious, well-intentioned declarations. So, it's rare for them to fail because they are inherently bad ideas. They often die out because 'life gets in the way.' Our schedules become unexpectedly chaotic, our motivation wanes naturally, and unforeseen challenges or tempting distractions arise. However, you do not have to abandon your goals because of these interruptions. Recommitment Day is about acknowledging perfection as an illusion and devising a plan to move forward. It's like a second chance at a new beginning, arriving at a time when you have invaluable real-life data to work with. By now, you have a good idea of what works (even if just briefly), what doesn't, and what you are willing to change about yourself. Don't underestimate the power of momentum. It requires consistent effort, not flawless execution. It's not just saving your resolutions now; you're also setting yourself up for success at the end of the year, potentially surpassing even your initial goals. We aren't just catching up; we are accelerating this midyear reset. The Five Ghosts of Resolutions Past: Why Our Best Intentions Derail To help us craft our comeback plan, let's briefly examine the common culprits that sabotage our New Year's resolutions. By understanding these patterns, you can avoid them between now and the end of the year. 1. Vague goals: The 'be better' trap. For actionable progress, phrases like 'get fit' or 'be more productive' lack specificity. You can't measure progress if you don't define what 'productive' or 'fit' means to you. It's like taking a road trip to a new location without a map — or most likely, GPS. 2. Unrealistic expectations: The all-or-nothing overhaul. January often inspires grand visions of transformation in every aspect of life. However, when you try to overhaul your diet, fitness, finances, and relationships at the same time, you are almost certain to be disappointed. Although big goals are inspiring, they must be broken down into smaller, manageable, and sustainable steps. 3. Lack of a system: Relying on motivation alone. Having a goal is like having a destination, but having a system will help you reach it. Even the strongest initial burst of motivation will inevitably fade without established routines, supportive tools, or ingrained habits. The only way to form a new habit is to create a supportive structure that allows you to do so. 4. All-or-nothing thinking: The single slip-up spiral. A trap like this is particularly insidious. When a person misses a workout, eats an unhealthy meal, or incurs an unexpected expense, they perceive it as a failure. When rigid mindsets are present, people often give up on their goals rather than simply correcting their course and moving forward. 5. No accountability: The secret struggle. When you keep your goals to yourself, there is little external pressure or support to motivate you. In our human nature, we are inclined to give up when no one is watching. Sharing aspirations, tracking progress, or engaging with a community can create positive social pressure and invaluable encouragement to achieve your goals. Recommitting with Confidence: Your Midyear Master Plan The purpose of Recommitment Day isn't just to dig out that dusty list from January 1. It's about approaching your goals more wisely, more intentionally. With this step-by-step framework, you can redefine, refine, and reinvigorate your resolutions for lasting success. Step 1: Take stock of the year's first half without judgment. During this initial phase, you should be honest with yourself, not critical of yourself. You may want to find a quiet place and ask yourself the following questions, writing your answers without filtering; What were my original New Year's resolutions or key goals for the year? Put them all in a list. Put them all in a list. What tangible progress have I made so far? Wins are important, no matter how small. For the past week, have you exercised? Have you saved an extra $20? These small victories should be celebrated. Wins are important, no matter how small. For the past week, have you exercised? Have you saved an extra $20? These small victories should be celebrated. Where did I genuinely struggle, and what caused those struggles? Is it a lack of time? Are you overwhelmed? Is the goal unrealistic? What are the external challenges? Be kind and honest at the same time. Is it a lack of time? Are you overwhelmed? Is the goal unrealistic? What are the external challenges? Be kind and honest at the same time. What significant changes have occurred in my life since January 1st? Do you have a new job? Is it a family event? Unexpected expenses? These shifts can have a dramatic impact on your capacity and priorities. Understanding the dynamics of the first five months will better prepare you to shape the second half of the year more effectively and sustainably. Step 2: Reevaluate your goals — quality over quantity. Some goals you set in January are not worthy of being revived verbatim. It is possible that some may no longer resonate with your current values, or that your life circumstances have genuinely changed. And that's okay. After all, it indicates growth and adaptability. As such, for each goal, review the following criteria: Is this goal still truly meaningful to me? Is there still a spark of desire, or does it contribute to my long-term goals? Is there still a spark of desire, or does it contribute to my long-term goals? Does it have a specific and measurable outcome? How can I define success clearly? A good example would be 'Walk 7,000 steps daily,' not 'Get fit.' How can I define success clearly? A good example would be 'Walk 7,000 steps daily,' not 'Get fit.' Is it achievable within the next six months? You need to be realistic about your current capacity and the timeline. You need to be realistic about your current capacity and the timeline. Does it excite or energize me? If setting a goal feels like a chore, you're unlikely to achieve it. After completing this assessment, clarify your top 2–3 most compelling goals. You can, for example, replace 'eat healthier' with a specific goal, such as: 'Cook dinner at home four nights a week.' 'Save money' can be replaced with something more specific, like: 'Transfer $100 to a high-yield savings account every Friday.' In short, instead of making a long list, focus on a few powerful intentions. Step 3: Rather than just establishing a destination, create a system. In my opinion, this is the most important step. There is a difference between a goal and a system, which is a repeatable process that helps you reach your goal. Rather than just declaring your goal, take action every day or every week to achieve it. If your goal is to read more, your system might involve 'reading 10 pages of a book before bed every night.' Or, if your goal is to get fit, your system might involve 'scheduling three 45-minute strength training sessions every Sunday for the following week.' To support your systems, consider these practical tools; Habit trackers or journals. It can be very motivating to visualize your progress. It can be very motivating to visualize your progress. Accountability partners or coaches. You get positive pressure and support from someone who checks in with you. You get positive pressure and support from someone who checks in with you. Time-blocking or reminder apps. Put reminders throughout your day to help you stick with your new habits. Put reminders throughout your day to help you stick with your new habits. Weekly check-ins. Every Sunday, take 15-30 minutes to review your progress, celebrate victories, and adjust your system for the week. To succeed, it must be as effortless as possible. Reducing friction will increase your chances of achieving your goals. Step 4: Tap into the power of declarations by publishing (or at least sharing). Some people prefer to keep their goals private, but declaring your intentions, even to a small group of trusted individuals, has a powerful effect. If you have a supportive friend or family member, let them know. Consider joining an online community or group focused on similar goals. Nevertheless, if sharing your intentions on social media motivates you, consider doing so. When others know what you're trying to accomplish, you're more likely to follow through. This isn't about avoiding judgment; rather, it's about improving accountability and creating a powerful support network. Step 5: Ensure flexibility with a resilience protocol. Here is where the wisdom from the year's first half truly shines through. Life is unpredictable by its very nature. Unexpected travel, illness, sudden burnout, or unavoidable last-minute obligations are all curveballs you can expect. Failure is not the result of these disruptions. Expect them. Build recovery plans into your strategy rather than viewing these moments as complete setbacks. It is not necessarily the end of your week if you miss a single workout. Weeks of healthy eating cannot be undone by a single day of less-than-ideal food. Resilience is what separates sustainable progress from rigidity — the ability to acknowledge mistakes, forgive yourself, and adapt without losing direction. Midyear Motivation: A Powerful New Frame On June 1st, we do not have to start over from scratch, but rather apply the hard-earned lessons we've learned so far. To fuel your recommitment, consider these powerful mindset shifts; 'I'm not starting over—I'm starting wiser.' The past attempts weren't failures; they were learning experiences. The past attempts weren't failures; they were learning experiences. 'I've learned what doesn't work. Now I'll strategically try what might.' Take advantage of your data! Take advantage of your data! 'I don't need to be perfect. I just need to be consistent enough.' For long-term change, good enough is often better than perfect. For long-term change, good enough is often better than perfect. 'Small wins now, consistently compounded, can add up to genuinely big changes by December.' 10 Actionable Ideas Worth Recommitting To Is your recommitment in need of some inspiration? Here are a few examples of focused, actionable goals you can adopt, adapt, or use as a springboard; Physical well-being. Attempt to walk 7,000 steps a day, five days a week (easily tracked with a phone or fitness device). Attempt to walk 7,000 steps a day, five days a week (easily tracked with a phone or fitness device). Mental well-being. Make a point to write down your gratitude in a journal three times a week (e.g., Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursday evenings). Make a point to write down your gratitude in a journal three times a week (e.g., Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursday evenings). Nutrition. At least four nights a week, cook dinner at home. At least four nights a week, cook dinner at home. Financial health. Transfer $50 (or $100) to a high-yield savings account every Friday. Transfer $50 (or $100) to a high-yield savings account every Friday. Personal growth . Every month, read one physical or e-book. Every month, read one physical or e-book. Morning routine . Every three mornings, wake up 30 minutes earlier to spend quiet time (reading, meditating, planning). Every three mornings, wake up 30 minutes earlier to spend quiet time (reading, meditating, planning). Digital Detox : Limit social media usage to 30 minutes a day (use your phone's screen time controls). Limit social media usage to 30 minutes a day (use your phone's screen time controls). Connection. Call or send a thoughtful message to one friend or family member each week to keep in touch. Call or send a thoughtful message to one friend or family member each week to keep in touch. Mindfulness. Use a guided app to meditate for 10 minutes every morning. Use a guided app to meditate for 10 minutes every morning. Skill development. Before August ends, complete one online course or certification to improve a professional skill. Remember to keep it simple, focused, and achievable. Realistic goals are those that can be realistically integrated into your everyday life, not idealized ones. Final Thoughts: It's Never Too Late to Author Your Own Success Story New Year's Resolution Recommitment Day, which takes place on June 1st, is not the time to reminisce about past mistakes. It's about taking advantage of a powerful opportunity. Even though the year is halfway through, it's not over yet! If you reflect honestly, create a smart strategy, and remain committed to consistent action, the next six months could be your life's most meaningful, productive, and healthy. To initiate change, you don't need a new calendar year. All you need to do is make a new decision. It's about embracing wisdom gained, forgiving past errors, and recommitting to the future. Now that you've taken a deep breath, let's revisit the aspirations you once had. Don't forget to tweak what needs to be tweaked. Make small, recommitted steps forward. FAQs What is New Year's Resolution Recommitment Day? This informal yet increasingly recognized observance encourages individuals to recommit to the goals they set for themselves at the start of the year. During this time, we reflect on progress, identify obstacles, and renew our resolve to reach our goals. As messy as life is, losing focus is a regular part of the journey, but getting back on track is important. When is New Year's Resolution Recommitment Day? New Year's Resolution Recommitment Day is observed each year on June 1st. There is a strategic reason for choosing this date. By June 1st, we are nearly halfway through the year, so we have ample time to assess what has (or hasn't) happened. We are far enough into the year for the initial 'newness' of resolutions to have worn off, making it an ideal time for a realistic reevaluation. What is the purpose of New Year's Resolution Recommitment Day? New Year's Resolution Recommitment Day aims to provide a structured opportunity for self-reflection. As a result, it serves several important purposes; Acknowledge and reset. By acknowledging your lapse in resolution, you can forgive yourself without feeling guilty. The new year provides an opportunity for a 'fresh start.'. By acknowledging your lapse in resolution, you can forgive yourself without feeling guilty. The new year provides an opportunity for a 'fresh start.'. Assess progress. Reflecting on what you have accomplished, even small victories, you can look at where you stand with your goals. Reflecting on what you have accomplished, even small victories, you can look at where you stand with your goals. Identify obstacles. What might have caused you to fall off track — was it lack of time, unrealistic goals, insufficient support, or unexpected life events? What might have caused you to fall off track — was it lack of time, unrealistic goals, insufficient support, or unexpected life events? Reignite motivation. In revisiting your 'why,' you can rekindle your initial motivation. In revisiting your 'why,' you can rekindle your initial motivation. Adjust and refine. During this time, you can ensure your goals and action plans are more realistic, specific, and achievable for the rest of the year. During this time, you can ensure your goals and action plans are more realistic, specific, and achievable for the rest of the year. Promote long-term success. By conducting a mid-year check-in, you are more likely to achieve your New Year's Resolutions, transforming good intentions into sustained progress. Where did New Year's Resolution Recommitment Day come from? Ancient civilizations such as Babylonia (which made promises to their gods at the beginning of their new year in mid-March) and the Romans (who sacrificed to Janus, the god of beginnings and transitions) started the tradition of making New Year's Resolutions thousands of years ago. However, New Year's Resolution Recommitment Day is a much more recent, informal celebration. Its exact origins are unknown. Nevertheless, it appears to have emerged in recent decades due to the widely recognized difficulty of keeping resolutions. As a result of the fact that many people abandon their goals early in the year (January 17th is unofficially known as 'Ditch New Year's Resolution Day' or 'Quitter's Day'), New Year's Resolution Recommitment Day was designed to provide a positive counterpoint – an opportunity to get back on track and reclaim your ambitions. Overall, it emphasizes that personal growth is not a one-time event, but a continuous process. What are the benefits of recommitting to your goals mid-year? On New Year's Resolution Recommitment Day, or anytime during the year, recommitting to your goals offers numerous advantages; Increased chance of success. By revisiting and reengaging, you significantly increase your chances of achieving your goals. By revisiting and reengaging, you significantly increase your chances of achieving your goals. Flexibility and adaptability. You can refine your goals as your circumstances change or you gain new insight. You might have set an ambitious goal, or perhaps your priorities have changed. With mid-year check-ins, you have the flexibility to adjust and create a more realistic and relevant plan. You can refine your goals as your circumstances change or you gain new insight. You might have set an ambitious goal, or perhaps your priorities have changed. With mid-year check-ins, you have the flexibility to adjust and create a more realistic and relevant plan. Reduced guilt and overwhelm. By doing so, you are liberated from feeling like a failure. Instead, it offers a fresh start, reducing mental strain that leads to quitting. By doing so, you are liberated from feeling like a failure. Instead, it offers a fresh start, reducing mental strain that leads to quitting. Momentum building. Even small steps can build powerful momentum following recommitment, facilitating progress. Even small steps can build powerful momentum following recommitment, facilitating progress. Enhanced self-awareness. By reflecting on your patterns, challenges, and true motivations, recommitment creates greater self-awareness. By reflecting on your patterns, challenges, and true motivations, recommitment creates greater self-awareness. Better goal setting in the future. When you practice mid-year adjustments, you set realistic, manageable goals and plans for the following year. When you practice mid-year adjustments, you set realistic, manageable goals and plans for the following year. Long-term personal growth. Self-improvement is a continuous process, not just a one-off event, encouraging a mindset of self-improvement and resilience. Image Credit: Breakingpic; Pexels The post Halfway There: Why June 1st is Your Secret Weapon for Crushing Those New Year's Resolutions appeared first on Calendar.
News18
3 days ago
- News18
Google Calendar Has A Dangerous Malware Threat: What Is It And How It Attacks
Last Updated: Google malware threats are getting wilder but the Calendar app being the ruse to attack businesses is a new method on the check list. Hacker groups are now eyeing your Google Calendar to bypass the device security and steal information. They have devised a dangerous malware called TOUGHPROGRESS that primarily targets government websites and holds them to ransom in exchange for giving them back the access. This is not the first sighting of the malware, and the Google Threat Intelligence team claims the first incident of the APT41 hacking group was reported back in October 2024. Now, the same group is exploiting the Calendar app to breach the system defenses and attack the victims. The details from the cyber security group at Google suggests the malware is directed at targeted systems using the conventional phishing email method. The group sends the pointed email with the objective to get the victim to open the affected website where the malicious ZIP file with PDF and fake images triggers the malware into action. And once the TOUGHPROGRESS malware bypasses all the checks, it tries to access the Calendar app of the victim to not only steal data but take control over the system by sending commands. The fake Calendar app also creates events with data embedded into them. This isn't the first Google product to be targeted by the hacker group. The APT41 group used Google Drive to inflict similar attacks on government entities using Google Sheets and more. Not In Danger Google has strong advice for people to avoid falling prey to these attacks: Expect more details from Google once the severity and impact of the malware campaign is addressed and rectified. First Published:
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Should You Buy, Hold, or Sell Salesforce Stock After May 28?
Salesforce, Inc. CRM will report its first-quarter fiscal 2026 results on Wednesday after market close. Thus, let's examine Salesforce's projected earnings, long-term growth factors, and post-earnings stock trading strategies. Salesforce expects fiscal first-quarter revenues to come in at $9.74 billion, suggesting an increase of 6.6% from the year-ago quarter. Earnings per share (EPS) are projected at $2.54, indicating 4.1% growth year over year. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research Moreover, over the last four quarters, Salesforce has achieved an average positive earnings surprise of 4.4%, signaling that it may meet its desired earnings growth in the fiscal first quarter. (Find the latest EPS estimates and surprises on Zacks Earnings Calendar.) Image Source: Zacks Investment Research Strong momentum in Salesforce's artificial intelligence (AI) platform, Agentforce, is expected to boost earnings in the fiscal first quarter. With the help of Agentforce, Salesforce can provide its customers out-of-the-box AI agents that can handle tasks related to customer service and technical issues. Agentforce enhances workers' efficiency regarding productivity. Salesforce first released Agentforce in September 2024, and in December of the same year, the updated version, Agentforce 2.0, was made available. While positive first-quarter fiscal results are anticipated to raise Salesforce's stock price, a recent deal with Informatica Inc. INFA has already made a significant impact. In an all-cash transaction, Salesforce will acquire Informatica for $8 billion. Earlier in April 2024, Salesforce was expected to purchase Informatica at a mid-$30 per share price point. However, now Salesforce is acquiring it at a much reduced price of $25 per share. Salesforce's AI strategy is anticipated to be strengthened by the deal, which is expected to close in the next fiscal year. Informatica's integration into the Salesforce platform would improve its data foundation, leading to substantial growth. Anyway, the Customer Relationship Management (CRM) market, where Salesforce holds the top spot globally, is projected to witness a robust 14.6% CAGR from 2025 to 2030, according to Grand View Research. Consequently, Salesforce anticipates its fiscal 2026 revenues to increase by 7% to 8%, reaching a range of $40.5 billion to $40.9 billion, and adjusted EPS to similarly improve. With Agentforce expected to boost fiscal first-quarter results, the Informatica deal, and a competitive edge in the CRM market, should compel the existing stakeholders to hold onto Salesforce stock. Salesforce is also cash-rich, which should help it pay off debts, pursue strategic acquisitions, and increase investments in growth opportunities. However, regardless of fiscal first-quarter results, Salesforce's stock price could be volatile due to U.S. market saturation, competition from cloud-based players like Microsoft Corporation MSFT and Oracle Corporation ORCL, and reduced IT spending caused by high interest rates and inflation. So, new entrants should avoid investing in Salesforce stock until these challenges are resolved. Salesforce stock, for now, has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today's Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks here. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Microsoft Corporation (MSFT) : Free Stock Analysis Report Salesforce Inc. (CRM) : Free Stock Analysis Report Oracle Corporation (ORCL) : Free Stock Analysis Report Informatica Inc. (INFA) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research ( Zacks Investment Research Sign in to access your portfolio
Entrepreneur
5 days ago
- Business
- Entrepreneur
Can AI Make You Too Efficient? The Downsides of AI Productivity
Whether we like it or not, artificial intelligence (AI) has become an integral part of our daily lives. We use it for messaging, calendaring, customer service, and even brainstorming. Moreover,... This story originally appeared on Calendar Whether we like it or not, artificial intelligence (AI) has become an integral part of our daily lives. We use it for messaging, calendaring, customer service, and even brainstorming. Moreover, with a few clicks or voice commands, we can generate full presentations, automate tasks that took hours, or make real-time, data-driven decisions. As of August 2004, almost 40 percent of U.S. adults aged 18-64 used generative AI. In the workplace, 28 percent of employees used it, while 33 percent used it away from the workplace. As far as researchers can tell, that is a significantly faster pickup rate than what was seen with the internet (20 percent after two years) or the personal computer (20 percent after three years). However, one question lingers silently in this race for optimization: Can we be too efficient? What if AI pushes us beyond productivity into a territory where we lose more than we gain? Here's a look at the other side of AI — one that's rarely seen in tech headlines. The truth is, we won't benefit from all this efficiency if we don't ask what it costs us. 1. The death of downtime. Downtime has traditionally been a natural part of the work cycle. Taking a walk, talking to a coworker, or simply letting your mind wander can have a profoundly positive effect on your creativity, mental restoration, and problem-solving abilities. However, AI doesn't take breaks. It doesn't need coffee or a breather. In other words, when it steps in, the pace changes. Because of this, tasks that used to take hours now take minutes, forcing us to either take on new tasks or feel guilty. When we are under pressure to 'always be doing,' it can silently erode our ability to pause and reflect. By constantly relying on AI tools to handle our busywork, we risk becoming task machines instead of creative thinkers. In short, prioritizing efficiency over reflection is a dangerous trade-off. 2. Risks to human skills. Data handling, pattern recognition, and mimicking human language are among the areas where AI excels. However, when we delegate too much to machines, we risk losing specific human skills. Let's take writing as an example. With tools like ChatGPT, polished copy can be generated in seconds. Sure, that saves time. But if we over-rely on it, we may lose control of our own voice. Over time, our critical thinking, storytelling, or even basic communication skills can become stale. It's the same with decision-making. By consistently recommending the 'best' course of action based on data, we might lose our ability to assess situations independently. In turn, we become operators instead of originators. 3. Productivity ≠ purpose. It's important to remember that being busy is not the same as being fulfilled. Staying busy is easy with AI. With incredible precision, it automates, streamlines, and stacks our to-do lists. But does all this activity lead to meaningful work? In most cases, the answer is no. It is possible to hide the absence of purpose behind the illusion of productivity. If your long-term goals and values don't align with the tasks you accomplish in an hour, were you wasting your time? Although AI can optimize how we work, we are the ones who decide why we work. 4. Ethical gray zones. There are also ethical concerns associated with AI-driven efficiency beyond its personal consequences. There is a rapid replacement of jobs in many industries due to automation. According to a report by the World Economic Forum, 47% of manual labor jobs could be automated by 2025; however, a more recent report suggests that this figure may decrease to 42% by 2027. That's a human story, not just a productivity story. As a result of faster output, people are being displaced, and whole communities may be disrupted economically. Even in the workplace, AI can be utilized to monitor performance, track productivity metrics, and motivate employees to work harder, faster, and more efficiently. In addition to analyzing how often you type, how quickly you respond to emails, and even your tone, surveillance software powered by AI can also gauge how well you respond to messages. There's a fine line between optimizing efficiency and creating a digital panopticon. 5. Creativity can't be scheduled. AI can help with creativity by suggesting headlines, generating images, and even composing music. However, creativity goes beyond output. There is insight, nuance, emotion, and an element of unpredictability to it. By over-optimizing creative processes, we begin to treat inspiration like a spreadsheet. In an environment where everything is based on data and deadlines, experimentation, failure, and surprise become increasingly complex. When efficiency is the goal, true innovation rarely occurs. Often, it happens in the mess — in failed attempts, random sparks, and slow building of ideas. 6. Dependency on AI and emotional detachment. Aside from chatbots for mental health, AI assistants for collaboration, and tools that filter our messages, something else starts to fade. As we interact more with polished, ever-helpful digital assistants, we may distance ourselves from the messy, imperfect, and deeply human aspects of communication. In turn, that leads to dependency. Artificial intelligence could eventually lose touch with our instincts if we start relying on it too heavily to make decisions, communicate, and even think for us. 7. Always-on, always-expected. AI never sleeps. That means the systems it powers, and the people connected to them, can feel like they shouldn't sleep either. In a culture of constant availability, it is possible to generate, respond to, and produce instantly. Whether it's clients expecting faster turnarounds or teams pushing for more output, the bar rises quietly every day. There's more to this than just work-life balance. It's a psychological issue. Despite achieving more than ever, the expectation of non-stop productivity can lead to burnout, stress, and feelings of inadequacy. So What Do We Do About It? Reclaiming Our Humanity in the Age of AI Efficiency AI is, at its core, a tool — albeit one that is extremely powerful. However, like any powerful instrument, it carries the potential for misuse if we fail to critically reflect on how we integrate it into our lives and, more importantly, what it ultimately means to us as individuals and as a society. For a more balanced and healthy relationship with AI-driven efficiency, consider these strategies: Redefine our metrics of productivity. Rather than determining our days by the sheer number of tasks we complete, we should take a different approach. Instead, track the level of energy, focus, and meaning we bring to our endeavors. Were we truly present at work? Has a real problem been solved? Were we able to make a meaningful connection with another person? Intentionally build in 'human time.' Every moment of our day does not need to be ruthlessly optimized for maximum productivity. Taking the time to think unstructuredly, rest, wander aimlessly, and explore creativity without a specific, measurable aim is essential. Often, our best ideas germinate and our most profound insights emerge from these seemingly 'unproductive' moments. Cultivate a partnership with AI, not a crutch. Use AI to spark new ideas, save time on repetitive tasks, and aid in research and analysis to enhance your work. However, resist the temptation to let it completely replace your own critical input, unique perspective, and human touch. Keep your own voice, judgment, and creativity in mind when creating the final product. Critically examine the metrics of success. If your workplace or industry promotes hyper-efficiency and relentlessly tracks productivity metrics, ask about the values and goals that underpin these practices. Are you optimizing for meaningful results or just to accomplish more? How are employees recognized for their creativity, insightful problem-solving, and meaningful contributions? Actively protect the essential human element. Whether it's nuanced interpersonal communication or complex decision-making, resist the urge to automate those qualities that define us as humans. Slowness, empathy, the ability to navigate ambiguity, and genuine connection should be preserved and nurtured rather than eliminated through optimization. Final Thoughts Our work, lives, and creativity have all been transformed by AI. The temptation to automate everything, to optimize endlessly, to never stop comes with great power, however. It is possible that we could outrun the very things that make our lives rich and meaningful by striving for efficiency. So next time AI helps you save an hour, ask yourself: what will you do with it? Is it more work? Or living more? There may not be a more humane choice you will make all day than the answer you choose. FAQs Isn't more efficiency always a good thing? Overemphasizing efficiency, particularly when driven solely by artificial intelligence, can have unintended negative consequences. In the absence of creativity, critical thinking, human connection, and personal growth, productivity can lead to a narrow and less satisfying work experience. How can AI-driven efficiency stifle creativity? Over-reliance on AI for efficiency might: Limit exploration and experimentation. Often, AI optimizes for known solutions and existing patterns, potentially inhibiting serendipitous discoveries. Often, AI optimizes for known solutions and existing patterns, potentially inhibiting serendipitous discoveries. Reduce human interaction. Artificial intelligence might replace brainstorming and collaborative problem-solving, which are essential for creative breakthroughs. Artificial intelligence might replace brainstorming and collaborative problem-solving, which are essential for creative breakthroughs. Homogenize ideas. There is a possibility that AI algorithms trained on existing data will produce more predictable and less original results. There is a possibility that AI algorithms trained on existing data will produce more predictable and less original results. Decrease 'downtime' for incubation. In moments of rest and unstructured thought, creative ideas often emerge. How might an overemphasis on AI efficiency impact personal growth and skill development? If AI handles many tasks, individuals might be able to: Missing opportunities for learning and skill acquisition. The best way to develop new abilities is to do things yourself, even if they're not the most efficient. The best way to develop new abilities is to do things yourself, even if they're not the most efficient. Experienced deskilling. In the future, AI may take over complex tasks, thereby reducing our reliance on these skills. In the future, AI may take over complex tasks, thereby reducing our reliance on these skills. Feel less engaged and challenged. If you regularly perform only the most streamlined and AI-assisted tasks, you might become bored and unfulfilled in your work. If you regularly perform only the most streamlined and AI-assisted tasks, you might become bored and unfulfilled in your work. Limited adaptability. You may struggle to adapt to AI when it's heavily utilized for a specific process. How can we strike a healthy balance between leveraging AI for productivity and preserving human skills and values? Achieving the right balance requires: Adopting a human-centered approach to AI implementation. Rather than replacing humans entirely with AI, focus on how it can enhance them. Rather than replacing humans entirely with AI, focus on how it can enhance them. Prioritizing learning and development. To keep individuals engaged and adaptable, promote continuous skill development. To keep individuals engaged and adaptable, promote continuous skill development. Fostering collaboration and human connection. In the workplace, facilitate teamwork, brainstorming, and social interaction. In the workplace, facilitate teamwork, brainstorming, and social interaction. Promoting critical thinking and digital literacy. The ability to evaluate AI outputs and understand their limitations should be provided to individuals. The ability to evaluate AI outputs and understand their limitations should be provided to individuals. Designing AI tools that are transparent and explainable. For critical evaluation and building trust in AI, it is imperative to understand how it arrives at its conclusions. For critical evaluation and building trust in AI, it is imperative to understand how it arrives at its conclusions. Establishing ethical guidelines for AI use. Establish policies that protect privacy, address bias, and prevent dehumanization. Establish policies that protect privacy, address bias, and prevent dehumanization. Recognizing the value of 'inefficient' human activities. Innovation stems from creativity, exploration, and relationships, even if they're not always efficient. What practical steps can individuals take to avoid becoming too dependent on AI? Individuals can: Actively engage in tasks AI could automate by practicing skills and maintaining a hands-on approach. Collaborate with colleagues and brainstorm ideas. Give yourself time to think and explore creatively unstructured. Continually learn and develop new skills outside of AI-assisted tasks. Understand how AI outputs are made and analyze them critically. Through experience and reflection, cultivate their intuition and judgment. You should take breaks and engage in activities that promote your well-being and cognitive function. Image Credit: Rahul Pandit; Pexels The post Can AI Make You Too Efficient? The Downsides of AI Productivity appeared first on Calendar.
