We understand.
Being truly productive at work- whether in the office or at home, can be difficult. We all have those days when completing our to-do list just seems impossible because of disruptions, distractions, or lack of motivation.
Try using these tips to work smarter and increase your productivity!
1. Make a list
Make a list of what you need to get done and prioritise these tasks using deadlines. Some people find pen and paper work best for them, but you might find an online project management tool helpful instead. It may help you to create a spreadsheet that lists your top 3 most important tasks each day. This will help you to plan your time and make sure that you focus on what is a priority.
2. Focus on one task at a time
It can be tempting to attempt to get a few tasks done at the same time. But research has shown that focussing on one task at a time results in completing our task list faster.
3. Take breaks
Taking regular short breaks helps us to recharge, increase our concentration levels and boost our mood. Working longer hours doesn’t necessarily mean that you will get more done. Try taking a 5-minute break to get some fresh air or grabbing a mid-afternoon coffee and snack.
4. Set small goals
Have you ever felt so overwhelmed with the big projects that you have to do, that you don’t even know where to start? Breaking each project down into smaller tasks will help you to feel much more in control and less daunted by what needs to be done.
5. Understand how and when you work best
If you’re a morning person, don’t push those big important tasks to later in the day when your attention may be lagging. Instead, tackle these big projects first thing in the morning when you are at your best.
6. Use the time-blocking method
Set limits by time-blocking out your day. After all, the more time you give a task, the more time it will take. Fill in those little windows of time with actual tasks that won’t take long to complete, and have a list of these tasks handy for moments when you can get a small task done.
7. Stop checking your notifications
Emails, social media, texts, and even phone calls can all be a huge distraction when you are bogged down by a lot of work that needs to get done. Turn off those notifications to help you focus on the task at hand. Like emails, you should only check your profiles at certain times during the day and limit how long you spend using them.
8. Eat well
Firstly, make sure that you remember to eat! And try to consume foods that will help your memory and energy levels. Experts recommend foods like berries, walnuts, bananas, and dark chocolate. Junk food affects your physical health and causes decreased productivity and energy crashes.
9. Switch things up
Set up a workspace that suits your needs for working productively. Don’t be scared to mix things up and work somewhere different. Maybe you work from home and find that hot desk working once a week helps to break up your week and meet other people*.
10. Keep your workspace tidy
Having less clutter on your desk will help you to think more clearly and waste less time searching for that missing document that you need. Have a clear-out and get rid of anything in your work environment that you don’t need. This is bound to help you feel more focused.
*Contact Able Meeting Rooms today if you need are looking for some workspace to hire. We have lots of options available