We all have the same 24 hours in a day. So why is it that some people seem to get so much more done than others?
The truth is, productivity isn’t something you are born with. It’s a skill that can be learned and developed over time with the right habits and strategies in place.
If you often find yourself running out of time to complete tasks, meetings, or projects at work, home, or school – read on for some helpful tips on how you can get more done in less time.
Start your day on the right foot
It all starts with your morning routine.
If you begin each day with the right mindset, you are more likely to overcome any obstacles that may come your way. This is because you will have prepared yourself with the necessary tools and strategies to tackle any problems or challenges that may arise.
The mood and feelings you have for the rest of the day will, therefore, be significantly influenced by how you begin your day.
For example, if you start your day by getting upset with your partner, child, or neighbour, you might find it hard to concentrate on your work and you may even be more likely to make a mistake.
Don’t multitask
Multi-tasking is a common term that is often associated with being more productive.
Truth is, it’s actually quite the opposite. When trying to accomplish two or more tasks at once, our brains are forced to rapidly shift its attention between those different tasks. This, in turn, slows us down, actually making us less productive in the process.
When you try to do two things at once, both tasks take longer and you make more mistakes. Because we have to mentally re-Focus our attention back and forth between the tasks, multi-tasking also uses up a lot of our energy.
After about 10 to 15 minutes of switching back and forth between tasks, our brains start to get tired, and our ability to stay focused and get work done begins to suffer.
Use technology to increase your productivity
You may associate technology with a decrease in productivity, but the truth is the opposite.
Technology can actually help us to become more productive and get more done by freeing up our time. There are a variety of apps and tools available to help you stay on track with your daily tasks and goals, which can help you to get more done in less time. –
Calendar: Keeping track of your daily tasks and appointments on your calendar can help you to stay on track and keep track of your time so that you don’t end up overcommitting yourself and missing important deadlines.
If you use a work computer, you can also use the calendar function on many software programs to keep track of your tasks. –
To-do list: Using a to-do list is another way to keep track of your daily tasks and help you to stay organized and focused.
There are many different ways you can keep track of your tasks on a to-do list. You can use pen and paper, apps on your phone or computer, sticky notes, or even virtual tools that allow you to manage your tasks online.
Have a workspace you love
In order to work more efficiently and productively, you need to be comfortable.
If you’re constantly feeling stressed and hurried, your work will suffer. A messy or cluttered desk, or a desk that isn’t the right height, can also slow you down and even cause injury.
Desk: Make sure that your desk is clean and organized.
If you have a messy desk, it can be very distracting and negatively impact your productivity. If you are sitting on a desk that is too low (or too high), you could develop back pain or have trouble focusing on your work.
Chair: If you’re sitting in a chair that doesn’t fit you, you could be at risk for injury. Make sure that your chair is the proper height for you and that your feet are resting comfortably on the floor.
Lighting: Make sure you have enough light in your workspace, especially if you work at night.
Also, keep electrical cords and computer wires out of your way so that you don’t trip on them or get distracted by them.
Learn to say no
Being a people pleaser can not only damage your health and relationships, it can hinder your productivity.
Being constantly busy can lead to stress, anxiety, and even depression.
Sometimes, it is necessary to learn to say no to commitments so that you can focus on what really matters.
Start with small commitments: Instead of cutting out commitments completely, start by saying no to the smaller commitments. This will give you confidence and help you to build up the strength to turn down bigger commitments in the future.
Give yourself time to think: Before you say yes to something, give yourself time to think about it and weigh out the consequences.
This is especially important with bigger commitments and long-term projects or obligations.
Don’t forget to maintain your health
It goes without saying, but while you want to be productive, you also want to be healthy.
Being healthy and taking care of yourself is important when it comes to increasing your productivity because it affects your brain function.
Sleep: Sleep is important for all aspects of health, including productivity. If you’re not sleeping enough, you may find yourself easily distracted, unfocused, or lacking in motivation. You may also find yourself more easily irritated and more likely to make mistakes.
Nutrition: What you eat has a major impact on your productivity. Eating a healthy, balanced diet will help you to stay healthy and boost your brain power.
Exercise: Exercising is one of the best things you can do for your health, brain function, and productivity. It helps to clear your mind, reduce stress, and increase your energy and focus. Make sure to exercise at least a few times a week for maximum benefit.
Conclusion
Productivity is a skill that can be learned and developed over time with the right habits and strategies in place.
If you often find yourself running out of time to complete tasks, meetings, or projects at work, home, or school – read on for some helpful tips on how you can get more done in less time.
The first thing you can do is start your day on the right foot by not rushing out of bed and not multi-tasking.
Instead, use technology to help you stay on track with your daily tasks, and make sure you are comfortable in your workspace so that you can focus on your work. Finally, make sure to maintain your health and exercise so that your brain is at its best.