Tips on productivity at work
Make the most of your day
We share our top tips on boosting your productivity at work.
We all often feel we could be more productive at work. Productivity isn’t just about getting things done, and our approach to improving it needs to incorporate being kind to yourself about when you do and don’t work at your best – and the importance of breaks and rest to improve your productivity. Here are some top tips to make you feel you’re getting the most out of your day while working:
1. Self-Awareness: Know yourself, your distractions and strengths
When we feel we’re being unproductive we often just blame ourselves for being lazy or unfocused. But the key to improving your productivity isn’t to beat yourself up or to tell yourself to just do better - you need to start by understanding what stops you from being productive. Is it background noise, your phone, or perhaps frequent interruptions? Identifying these distractions allows you to take proactive steps to minimise them.
Equally important is recognising what sets you up for a productive day. Whether it’s getting an early night, exercising in the morning, stepping outside for some fresh air and daylight, or having a nutritious breakfast, find what works best for you.
Understand when your productivity peaks. Not everyone is a morning person who can tick off their to-do list after a 6am run. Be honest with yourself about when you have the most energy and when you start to flag. Schedule your most demanding tasks during your peak productivity times and save easier tasks or informal meetings for when your energy dips.
2. Prioritise: Tackle the tough tasks first
We all have that one task we dread. Instead of putting it off, tackle it first. Completing a challenging task early in the day gives you a sense of achievement and sets a positive tone for the rest of the day. This momentum can motivate you to keep going and be more productive.
3. Consider “windowed working”
Windowed working involves breaking your workday into focused intervals with breaks in between. This method helps maintain high levels of concentration and prevents burnout. For example, you might work for 90 minutes and then take a 15-minute break. Experiment with different intervals to find what works best for you.
4. Batch similar tasks together
Grouping similar tasks can save time and mental energy. You can aside specific times for checking emails, making phone calls, or doing administrative work. This approach reduces the cognitive load of constantly switching between different types of tasks and helps you stay in a productive flow.
5. Take plenty of breaks
This is vital. Contrary to the belief that working long hours without breaks is a sign of productivity, taking regular breaks is essential for maintaining high performance. Breaks help you recharge, reduce stress, and prevent burnout. Even a short walk or a few minutes of stretching can make a big difference.
6. Create a more mindful to-do list
A to-do list should be more than just a list of tasks. Make it mindful by prioritising tasks based on their importance and urgency. Break larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps and include time for breaks and self-care. This approach ensures that your to-do list is realistic and achievable, helping you stay focused and motivated.
Remember, productivity isn’t about working harder; it’s about working smarter. We hope these tips help!
