Productivity is the key to success in any field, but especially in business. If you work harder, you can get more done and be more successful. But how do you maximize your productivity to accomplish more?
Here are eight ways to be more productive and make the most of your workday.
1. Write down everything you need to do each day
Making a list of the things you need to do each day is a great way to start the day off on the right foot. You can stay focused and motivated throughout the day if you have a plan, know what you need to do, and manage your time accordingly. You can also track your progress and make sure you don’t forget anything important.
Make a list of the most important things you need to do, as well as any other smaller things you’d like to do. Then, put your list in order of importance so you can finish them first.
Also, it helps to break up big tasks into smaller parts that are easier to handle. This will make them seem less scary and easier to do.
When you finish a task, cross it off your list so you can see how far you’ve come. You’ll also benefit from that little dopamine hit that will keep you going.
2. Give yourself a daily or weekly goal to work on
Image Credit: deagreez1 via Depositphotos.Setting a daily or weekly goal to work on is another great way to get more done. Having a clear goal will keep you motivated and on track with what you need to do. It can also help you stay accountable and make sure you’re moving forward.
To set a good goal, first think about what you want to do. Then, break this down into smaller goals that you can work on each day or week. Make sure your goals are clear, measurable, attainable, important, and have a deadline (SMART). This will help you set a goal that you can actually reach.
Once you know what you want to do, write it down and put it somewhere you will see it every day. This will help you remember what you have to do. And when you reach each goal, make sure to celebrate so that you can keep going.
3. Get rid of things that distract you
If you want to get things done, you need to get rid of things that can get in your way. This means turning off your phone, closing your social media tabs, and putting away any other things that could distract you.
If you can’t get rid of all distractions, try to schedule times when you can check them. For example, you could give yourself five minutes every hour to check your phone.
4. Get your work in order and make it easier to do
Image Credit: deagreez1 via Depositphotos.com.If you want to get things done, you need to organize yourself. So set yourself up a way to work that helps you get things done quickly and well. This could mean making your process more efficient so you don’t waste time on unimportant tasks, or it could mean setting up a physical workspace that helps you get things done.
Here are some ways to get organized and be as productive as possible:
- Make sure you have everything you need before you start, such as updated software, reference notes, and a big cup of coffee
- Streamline your work by getting rid of tasks you don’t need to do today
- Break down bigger tasks into smaller, easier-to-handle steps
- Set up a schedule or time-blocking system that will help you focus on your work and keep you from getting distracted
- Use tools and resources that can help you get things done, like task managers, Pomodoro timers, and apps that track your productivity
5. Take breaks and work out often
Throughout the day, it’s important to take breaks to re-energize and re-focus. This doesn’t mean you should take a long break every hour, but you should stand up, stretch, and move around every once in a while.
Exercise, like taking a short walk, is also a great way to boost productivity because it gives you more energy and helps you focus and concentrate better. So, make sure to take breaks and get some exercise throughout the day.
6. Get enough sleep and eat well
When you’ve had a good night’s sleep and a healthy meal, you’ll have the energy you need to get things done.
Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep each night. And make sure to eat meals with lean protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats. These nutrients will give your body the fuel it needs to keep going all day.
7. Give tasks to other people whenever you can
One of the best ways to get more done is to give tasks to other people when you can. Delegating can be hard if you’re used to doing everything yourself, but it can give you more time to focus on more important tasks.
That is if give them to the right person. Make sure that the person you’re giving the task to can do it and that they understand what you want them to do, otherwise you’ll just end up having to do it (or re-do) yourself anyways.
Start by giving simple tasks to others, and then move on to more complicated ones. Once you’ve given someone a task, let go of control and trust that the task will be done to your standards. Although, you may have to double-check or guide them the first couple of times until they get the hang of it.
8. Don’t work too late at night because it can be bad for your health
When you’re being productive, it’s tempting to work late into the night. But staying at work late can be bad for your health, especially if it becomes a habit. It can mess up your sleep schedule, which can make you tired and less productive. It can also lead to burnout, which can hurt your mental and physical health in a lot of ways.
So, if you find yourself working late at night, try to take a break and get some sleep instead. To get things done, you must take care of your health.
Maximize Productivity & Get More Done in Less Time
Remember that the key to being productive and unlocking your full potential lies within finding what works best for you. So, try out different approaches and strategies and see what you can do to make your work easier.
Also, don’t forget, productivity isn’t just about working harder or longer. It’s also about taking care of yourself. So, make sure to take breaks and prioritize your health.
You’ll find that taking care of yourself actually helps you be more productive in the long run. Trust me, your body and mind will thank you!
Bonus: Take Some Time Off
You’ve worked hard to earn your PTO, and it’s time you start using it! It’s good for you, your health, and your career. Not taking time off of work is a problem. It can lead to a toxic workplace where you are burnt-out, stressed, anxious, irritable, and unhappy. So start using your paid time off! It’s good for you (and your career).
From Social Media to Tech Issues: How to Minimize Distractions at Work
Image Credit: Krakenimages.com via Depositphotos.com.Are you trying to work on your presentation between your daily Zoom calls? Think you can take a client call while reviewing an overdue report? Think again! Here are 10 Office Time-Wasters (and What To Do About Them).
Self Care Under $50
Life can be so chaotic and stressful that finding time for yourself often feels impossible. Maybe even selfish. But self care is so important! How can you take care of others without first taking care of yourself? Check out these self-care gift ideas that will help you (or a loved one) relax, recharge, and feel your best.
Amanda Kay, the founder of My Life, I Guess, provides valuable career advice and support for anyone striving to make a living and, more importantly, make a life. Whether it's navigating job searches, learning new skills, overcoming unemployment, or dealing with debt, My Life, I Guess has been a go-to resource for career guidance and financial stability since 2013. Amanda's expertise and relatable approach have been featured in trusted publications such as MSN, Credit.com, Yahoo! Finance, the Ladders and Fairygodboss.