Many people struggle with productivity throughout the workday, but it doesn’t have to be your Achilles’ heel. Here are six ways you can ensure that you’re efficient even when you have an ample amount of tasks to complete.
1. Prioritize Your Tasks
It can be intimidating to look at a list of tasks first thing in the morning. This mountain of responsibilities may hinder your confidence, as well as your efficiency. To reduce the amount of anxiety that comes with several responsibilities, make a priority list. Jot down everything you need to get done in order of importance. This will give you a sense of direction as you begin your workday.
2. Prevent Burnout
While you may be hyper-efficient in the first portion of your day, this can quickly fade if you put all of your energy into the early hours. To avoid burnout, take breaks in between your work. Go for a walk (outside, if possible) to reset and refresh your mind. You’ll be in a better position to focus when you return.
3. Turn Off Notifications
This means notifications for emails, messages, and everything in between. Notifications can easily interrupt your focus and make it more challenging to be productive throughout the workday. To go one step further, think about powering off your mobile devices, especially your phone. Text messaging can be just as distracting as an email alert on your desktop.
4. Opt for In-Person Conversation
Instead of sending an email to someone who works across the room from you, get up and walk over to the individual. See if you can collaborate and solve the issue together in-person, rather than via email. Email communication can be a big time sucker throughout the day, and many problems can be resolved with a few minutes of conversation.
5. Avoid Multitasking
It’s been proven that multitasking does not save you time, and in fact, it may even cost you time in comparison to working on a one-task basis. Instead of pushing yourself to work on multiple projects at once, see if your productivity level increases through handling one thing at a time. Researchers say that doing so may not only boost your efficiency, but reduce your risk of errors as you work.
6. Make Your Workspace Brighter
A happier workspace that makes you feel positive can potentially increase your productivity. Whether it’s framed photos or potted plants that make you feel more at home, a beautiful office space can encourage you to perform well throughout the workday.
By taking just a few of these tips into account, you’ll feel better about your efficiency. Over time, you may even start to recommend some of your changes to colleagues who need a boost.
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