Last Updated on July 20, 2022 by
Here are 12 Ways to Be More Productive and Get More Done in Less Time at Work:
1. Get rid of distractions –
Having distractions in the workplace is equivalent to having a slow internet connection; no matter how fast you are, it will always be quicker if there’s less data . Fewer interruptions mean more time spent working and an overall higher level of productivity.
2. Set a specific goal for the day –
Having a daily goal is extremely important as it creates a sense of purpose and urgency. Setting a goal first thing in the morning allows us to surround ourselves with meaning and direction from the moment we start work until we finish up at the end of the day. Also, having a set goal can help manage your time more efficiently says William D King.
3. Don’t multitask –
Although it may seem efficient, research shows that multitasking is actually less productive than doing one task at a time. Multitasking taxes the brain by forcing it to switch between two or more activities, which reduces concentration and affects productivity levels.
4. Keep focused on one task at a time –
The more you switch between tasks, the less productive you become; it’s like getting an extra life in Mario but using that extra life to go back and forth to the items menu instead of tackling the game (I bet there are some gamers reading this). Taking your time with each project can save time overall by avoiding having to fix mistakes. If you want to be more efficient at completing projects, try breaking them down into smaller tasks or create timelines for them (this article offers ways to make timelines).
5. Use the 30-30-30 rule –
This rule allows you to focus longer by taking short breaks every 30 minutes. To use this technique, simply set a 30 minute timer and, when it goes off, take a break for 30 minutes. A short walk outside can do wonders in keeping you refreshed and focused on your work.
6. Use a to-do list –
A simple to-do list is an effective way of making sure nothing gets forgotten or skipped through the day. According to this study , registering tasks leads to higher levels of productivity because the brain has already acknowledged them as being important enough not to forget about later on (if you’re looking for a great task management tool, try Clear Context
7. Eat right –
The food we eat can affect our energy level throughout the day; sugary snacks and caffeinated beverages may give us a quick boost but they can also cause our energy levels to drop and drain our mental focus. If we want to be more productive, we should eat small, healthy meals that consist of proteins and carbohydrates instead of junk food or processed pastries (this article offers 10 healthy snacks you can make at home).
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8. Have enough rest –
Many studies show how lack of sleep affects the brain; one such study shows. To stay focused throughout the day, make sure you get enough sleep at night (I recommend 7-9 hours) so that your mind and body are refreshed and energized for work in the morning (if you’re having problems sleeping, try drinking chamomile tea 30 minutes before bed; it can help with sleep and it tastes delicious).
9. Do what’s urgent, not what’s important –
Often times we prioritize tasks based on how important we think they are instead of factoring in urgency. Urgent tasks may include responding to emails and phone calls immediately while important tasks may include planning new projects and working on company strategy. Instead of doing what’s urgent right away, try to focus on the most important things that will yield greater results in the long run (this article offers a great way of managing your time by focusing on importance).
10. Take regular breaks –
Taking short breaks every hour or so is extremely beneficial for keeping your energy levels up throughout the day; physical activity such as going for a walk and taking a quick breather outside can help you become more productive and focused. To take breaks that will be most effective, make sure to balance physical activity with mind exercises such as mindfulness meditation or deep breathing (this article offers ways of keeping your focus).
11. Do the important things first –
Although it may seem counter-intuitive, doing what’s important first can actually help us become more productive by eliminating stress from having incomplete tasks lingering throughout the day. If we do what’s urgent right away, then we risk feeling overwhelmed at the end of the day when we only have time left for completing important tasks (here are some tips on how to prioritize).
12. Have a set work schedule –
Having a set schedule every day can help with keeping yourself on track and focused on your tasks. This study shows how having a set schedule allows for less distractions and more productivity because we know what’s coming up in the day ahead of time.
Conclusion by William D King:
These tips can help you become more productive and focused throughout the day (this article offers some great ways on how to stay organized). By prioritizing what’s important, having a set work schedule and doing the most important tasks first, we can boost our productivity and be more effective in getting things done.
