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I think that to best answer the above question, we must first understand what is happening, and in turn, then apply a simplification process to our work day. In other words, for many people who would be asking this question in the first place, it is important to define the problem to better understand the solution. When things are complicated, it usually means that there is a lack of organisation. I know this is a generalisation, but I feel that I can make this assumption in most cases. Please understand that I am writing this article based on my personal experience and thus, am recommending the solutions that have and continue to work for me.
I used to be extremely organized, and then went through a period where I simply let things go, in a sense that I became overwhelmed with a list of tasks that was longer than anyone could reasonably, or even unreasonably manage in any twenty four hour day. The lists were so long at times, that my large desk diary needed to have extra sheets inserted just to fill in the day's tasks. Needless to say, this caused great stress. This was a result of feeling like an underachiever, and also from a clear case of over expectation for a task's time frame.
To put it another way, it's like most people overestimating what can be done in a short while, and under estimating their life's goals and abilities. Hence, we need to look at every task and item on our day's 'to do' list. When we better plan, we immediately eliminate the issues of under achievement due to better time allocation. We also need to know how to say 'no' when it is too much, or over crowding our day. Please do not confuse this with the issue of simply never stretching yourself, however. It is about a gradual increase of tasks and delegation of duties when required. For me personally, the issue of delegation took a longer time to master, but I can assure you, when you are able to follow this concept and apply it in practice, you will notice a massive increase in your output. Also, you need to divide your day into 'busy' time and 'income' time. You can probably tell I am referring to this from a business point of view. There are many people who spend hours on administration tasks that are taking their time, but not earning them any income. It is important to do them, but more important to do the income producing jobs first, and then either employing someone, or delegating the more mundane tasks that are not helping you reach your full potential.
This is a start to ensuring your success improves, in as much as you need to plan realistic goals into your diary to maximize your output, and satisfaction with your results.