An increase in productivity can simply be about learning how to manage your time better. It can be discouraging to set goals for the day and find yourself feeling tired and unaccomplished. But that does not have to be your reality because it takes just a few simple tweaks to fully unleash that go-getting energy.
Five simple tips to increase productivity
Here are five simple ways that will help stay on top of your game.
Complete bigger tasks when you are alert
Most people are most alert in the morning after their first cup of coffee. Priceonomics, a data content firm, analysed data from a company called, Redbooth to look at when people were most productive.
The study showed that most tasks got completed in the morning hours until 11:00 and, from then to 13:00, productivity levels decreased. Therefore, if you have big tasks that require a lot of attention, it is better to complete them in the morning when you have the most energy.
Additionally, productivity expert Tony Wong, advises that you have a good start to your morning to set the trajectory of your day. Understandably, it is subjective when people have a peak in their productivity, but the point is to capitalise on it to complete the most demanding tasks.
Do not multi-task
Multitasking can easily trick you into feeling like you are getting more done, but it is actually counterproductive.
A study by the University of Sussex showed that people who multitask are more likely to have mental blocks and poor concentration, which will affect the quality of their work. Focusing on one task at a time allows you to immerse yourself in what you are doing and complete it to your best abilities.
Cut down your to-do list
Career coach Ashley Stahl wrote as a contributor for Forbes that we tend to overwhelm ourselves with too many tasks. Reducing your list of things to do can make it easier to manage your time and accomplish your daily goals. Stahl also says breaking down bigger projects into smaller assignments will make them less daunting.
Get rid of distractions
The research by the University of Sussex also looked at people’s media consumption and how that affected their brains. The study indicated that people constantly look at their media devices while working, and this causes damage to their minds. It creates a “smaller grey matter density” in the part of the brain that is responsible for cognitive and emotional control functions.
This means, on days when you are planning on having a productive day, make sure you create an environment that will help you stay focused.
Take breaks
Taking breaks to get back to work is beneficial. Research by Psychology Today indicates that people who take regular short breaks in between their work are more creative and productive. Going out for a five-minute walk or breathing in the fresh air helps replenish the brain and strike new ideas and enthusiasm to continue working
Additionally, knowing when to go out for a refresher helps with reducing fatigue and allows you to tick more things off your list.