How Can We Become More Effective Engineers? Part 2: Prioritize Regularly

Engineers can increase their effectiveness by focusing on high-leverage tasks that produce significant value with minimal time investment, such as contributing to business metrics and optimizing processes, rather than merely completing numerous low-impact tasks. To manage the myriad tasks that extend beyond sprint work, engineers should utilize simple checklists to prioritize activities based on their long-term value. The Eisenhower Matrix can help differentiate important, non-urgent tasks, like professional development and relationship-building, from less critical tasks. Emphasizing team growth through hiring, onboarding, and knowledge sharing is vital, as is learning to say no to non-essential commitments that detract from core responsibilities. Engineers can benefit from interest groups and mentor-mentee relationships to enhance learning and collaboration within their organizations. These strategies, inspired by "The Effective Engineer" by Edmond Lau and "Deep Work" by Cal Newport, encourage engineers to focus on impactful work that fosters both personal growth and organizational success.