We all aim to be productive, but sometimes it just doesn’t happen. Procrastination can easily take over an otherwise smooth day, and the slightest of road bumps can cause your to do list to fly out of the window. What you need to do is figure out how to be productive for yourself, e.g. identify your most productive time of day and utilise it as much as possible. In a successful contemporary office, identifying your ideal productivity time is a vital piece of the puzzle.
For instance, do you feel sluggish at your desk in the morning, and slow to get started? Or, are you someone who finds it easier to concentrate in the mornings, before the stress of the day takes hold? Identify when your brain is firing on all cylinders and plan your day around it. The tasks which require more in the way of concentration should be carried out during those productive times, and the tasks which perhaps don’t need as much focus can be planned for when you’re perhaps coming to the end of your productivity window.
Knowing your ideal time of day isn’t the whole story. Let’s explore 10 productivity hacks, some of which might not have crossed your mind.
Turn Off Notifications And Alerts
Whether this is messaging apps, social media, or emails, turn those notifications off and check just a few times every day.
Avoid checking regularly – once in the morning, once after lunch, and once before you leave work is sufficient.
Drink Plenty of Water
Caffeine might be the go to drink for most of us in the mornings, but throughout the day it’s far better to drink water to give your brain the hydration and focus it needs. Keep a large bottle on your desk, or get up regularly to fill up your glass at a nearby water fountain.
Have Regular Breaks
It might sound counterproductive, but regular breaks can actually help you to concentrate better and therefore get more done.
Get up from your office seating and go for a walk, a drink, or do a task away from your desk every so often.
Try Walking Meetings
Yes, these really are a thing! Walking meetings get you out into nature, they help get the blood pumping and they get you away from your desk. More ideas are likely to be generated, and you’re getting some exercise. What could be better?
Work in Time Blocks
We all know about prioritisation in terms of getting everything done within the time you have, but working within time blocks can help you complete your to do list every day. Realistically work out how much time each task is going to take you and then allocate the right amount of time to it. If you want to challenge yourself, shave 10 minutes off the time and see if you can reach it! Don’t push yourself too far however, as failing to meet your targets regularly could kick your confidence downwards.
Have Some Natural Elements Nearby
It’s not always wise to be surrounded by office screens, and instead why not have some plants and natural elements around you?
This is called biophilic design and it has been shown to be very effective in boosting mood and productivity for office workers. Open those windows, get some fresh air in, and dot some beautiful green plants around!
Sit Down, Stand up
Have you heard of standing desks, or height adjustable desks? These are ideal for avoiding the risks of a sedentary lifestyle, and also help to boost oxygen and blood flow to the brain, via the fact you’re moving around more.
Have a Good Breakfast
Start the day in the best possible way, with a healthy and nutritious breakfast, packed with vitamins and minerals to start the day.
Avoid anything too heavy or laden in fat, as this will simply slow you down even more. A cup of coffee is perfectly fine, but don’t go overboard!
Avoid Being a Perfectionist
If you’re someone who is a bit of a perfectionist, you need to take action on this personality trait right now. Nobody can do everything perfectly all the time, and you’re simply wasting time and wasting energy by attempting it. Do your very best, and tats all you can do!
By realising this fact, you’ll become more productive and more upbeat about your work.
Make Sure You’re Comfortable
At the end of the day, if you’re not comfortable at your office chairs or your workstation set up, you’re not going to get much done.
Invest in quality office furniture and carefully arrange it within the space you have. This is one of the biggest productivity hacks that most people don’t realise.
The good news is that these 10 productivity hacks are all things you can start right now!