We all have those days when we have competing deadlines, we have all the coworkers who don’t have said deadlines stop by for a chat, and we all have a major after lunch slump...and yet, we still need to get down to business and get a report done by the close of business day...the day just seems to escape you and it’s almost 5.
Here are a few of our best tips to stay productive at work in the midst of all the distractions.
Set an intention for your day before you turn your computer on
By setting an intention before any distractions, you're set with your best foot forward for whatever the day may bring your way, you can be in the right frame of mind to respond accordingly. The best way to be productive is to have the mentality that you are productive and walk into the work day with that mindset. We have heard it said again and again but if we can get control of our thoughts/mentality than we our emotions and actions will follow so this is the best place to start! Check out our Daily Rhythms & Routines printable in our library today. When your daily rhythm contains the space for you to get things done, accomplishing goals becomes a way of life. Positive habits, such as established household rhythms, work to save energy and brain power for the times you need it.
Write your tasks down and set a timer to complete them
I I love the Pomodoro technique where you work for short periods of time before taking a break. It’s almost like a game: I work with ‘all I got’ for a solid 25-min stretch and give myself a 5-min break to quickly catch up with my work BFF. It’s realistic and more productive than sitting at your desk staring at your computer screen for an hour trying to get motivation. It might be helpful to outline what you aim to get done during the 25 minute work time so that you don’t start your timer and spend the entirety deciding what you need to do. I tend to write down my tasks on paper to think through my day and also to have the satisfying feeling of the ‘swoosh’ across my to-do list when I complete something!
Take a break after said timer goes off
Actually, research shows it makes people more productive). Even breaks that are just a few minutes long can help you recharge and come up with new ideas. If it helps you can plan out what you’re going to do during your next break, like grab a snack or check social media, so you’re not tempted to try and squeeze it into your ‘work time.’ One of the biggest mistakes people make when trying to be more productive is refusing to stop working which can lead to burnout and laziness in the long run so be sure to take breaks when you need them!
Work with your door closed, if possible
So you can get big ticket items crossed off your to-do list - this also helps manage interruptions and the temptation to join in on the groups talking outside. Working in an open office space and no door? No problem. Headphones with your favourite music may help you concentrate.
Streamline communications
I call a colleague instead of sending an email whenever possible and only have meetings when absolutely necessary - because meetings, SO many meetings! And the less time you have at your desk the less you seem to be able to get done. There are so many ways to communicate in today’s world, do what makes you feel the most efficient and ‘on top of things’ during your work day.
Here at Ponderlily we understand how hard it can be to stay on time and keep up with working, running a business, or just plain life in general. It’s truly our pride and joy to help busy women get control of their crazy schedules and feel empowered to be more productive both at work and in the day-to-day.
