Do you have plenty of items on your to-do list but struggle to complete anything significant? It takes more than time management to boost your productivity levels. Maintaining a high level of productivity can be challenging, but if you play your cards right, you can channel your focus. Here are some ways you can increase your productivity at work:
1. Manage your energy levels, not just your time
Instead of doubling your caffeine intake, you should observe which times of the day you usually feel more energized. A Microsoft study says most workers have experienced triple peak periods in a day. Increase your productivity by planning your most complex work during your peak period or golden hours and save the easier ones during down times.
2. Prioritize healthy habits
Maintaining healthy habits can help you stay focused throughout the day. Including healthy habits like drinking more water before you drink coffee, setting a timer so you can stretch now and then, and sleeping early can help increase your productivity levels.
3. Stop multitasking
If you juggle too many tasks simultaneously, the results may suffer. Focusing on just one item at a time allows you to complete it to a high standard in less time. It is also important to be realistic. According to experts, switching between tasks can cut productivity by as much as 40%.
4. Tune out distractions
Distractions and interruptions can dampen your productivity levels. While you can never entirely eliminate distractions, you can lessen their effects on your productivity by switching your phone to ‘Do Not Disturb’ mode and using earphones to reduce environmental distractions.
5. Take breaks throughout the day
Your efficiency can take a hit when you’re overworked. Give yourself a break before you get overwhelmed or feel burned out. Remember that it’s ok to take time for yourself at work. If you channel some of your energy towards things that make you happy or relaxed, you’ll be more motivated to get things done.
Read: Managing overwhelm and burnout at the workplace
6. Refine your workspace
Whether you work from home or at the office, you should curate your work area to help you feel more focused and motivated. Invest in ergonomic desk accessories to support your body if you can and, if possible, position your workstation near a window. Natural light can do wonders for your productivity level.
7. Delegate to others when possible
Sometimes, you don’t have to do everything by yourself. Ask for help from your colleagues when possible. Delegating tasks not only frees up your time but fosters an office culture of empowerment and trust in the ability of others.
8. Reward yourself on the completion of a task
One of the most effective ways to increase your productivity levels at work is using a reward system. You need to create incentives that will motivate you to stay productive. This doesn’t necessarily have to be monetary. This can be as simple as a cup of coffee or eating a sumptuous meal.
9. Let go of perfectionism
One of the factors that affects productivity levels is one’s penchant for perfectionism. While the desire to deliver spotless work may be admirable, it can also affect how much work you accomplish. To focus on progress and not perfection, you should set a time box or a certain period to finish a particular task. When the time box ends, you move on to the next item.
10. Follow the five-minute rule
If procrastination is your biggest enemy, try the five-minute rule. By promising yourself that you’ll dedicate five minutes to a particular item, you can eliminate the excuses that stop you from starting. Even if the five minutes are up, your motivation to complete the task will remain and will help increase your productivity level.
These tips can help you boost your productivity levels, so you don’t always have to go overtime to get things done. Remember that you won’t always be super motivated, managing your productivity can lead to a better sense of fulfillment and a greater chance at success.
