Unpretentious methods to become more productive can sometimes be more difficult to find than they appear to be. In our adult lives, we sometimes find it difficult to comprehend how our days seem to run together at times. With our never-ending cycle of waking up at the same time, working our 9 to 5 jobs, and then commuting home so we can spend time with our families, cook dinner, and put the children to bed, the days seem to move at hyper speed.
The following tips will help you manage your workday (and even your personal days) in a way that ensures that each day is more productive than the previous one, while still allowing you to recognize the distinction between the two.
Are you Productive?
Let’s face the facts head-on. Certain people lack the ability to consistently be productive (at work and at home). When this occurs, you may experience a bout of depression, which will have a detrimental effect on your life. The most important thing to know and realize is that you have the power to change this in order to maximize your entire day.
A few critical changes may be required in order for you to become happier, more productive, and more organized than you have ever been. The following list will be arranged in chronological order, starting with the first part of your day, the pre-work. In part two, we will explore your work habits and how they can be developed for the greatest success. As a final step, we will discuss how to make the most of your personal time once it becomes available. For the most efficient use of your time, be sure to read up on all three parts.
Pre-Workday
Our cherished pre-workday, how we adore you! In other words, this is the time when you begin your day by waking up. Whether you choose to start your day with a shower, or a cup of coffee is entirely up to you. The most important aspect is how you begin your day, as well as what you do before you begin your commute to work. If you are a remote worker, this will be before you begin your typical workday.
Wake Up Early. This sounds simple enough, right? What if I told you that most successful people choose to awaken earlier than they need to for their daily activities? That is indeed the case. The vast majority of highly successful individuals are (very) early risers. Certainly, you have the option to choose to get an extra hour of sleep in the mornings, but realistically, you could use that time to accomplish other tasks around your home.
To begin with, set your alarm 15 minutes before you need to wake up in order to get ready if you are not a morning person. Slowly increase your waking up time by 15 minutes each day. Once your body adjusts to being an early riser, you will have up to two extra hours each morning to accomplish minor tasks around the home or in your personal life.
Organize a To-Do List. It can be daunting to tackle a to-do list head-on, especially if you are not sure where to begin. It is advisable to begin by making a list first. If you are feeling bold, try to overcome the most difficult obstacle first. It may be a good idea to begin small and then work your way down the list as you have more time each morning if you are just getting used to a pre-workday routine in the early morning. Ensure that your to-do list contains only activities that can be completed within a day. It will prevent you from feeling overwhelmed by the number of activities you choose to undertake on a daily basis.
Avoid Your Phone. We tend to waste a good portion of our days when it comes to social media or technology once we begin down the rabbit hole that begins with grabbing our phones. Avoid picking it up at all costs. Consider investing in a clock for each room of your home if you are like me and use your phone (or smartwatch) to check the time. By doing this, you will be able to reduce your overall phone consumption, which will enable you to be more productive at home. Place it out of your sight when necessary, such as in a nightstand, inside a purse, or even in your car. That way, when the time comes for your commute, it is already waiting for you and you do not have to worry about forgetting where you put it.
Prioritize Exercise Upon Waking. Working out for 15 to 30 minutes can increase your productivity, motivation, and energy throughout the day. As an added benefit, it can help you start your day in a positive manner as studies have shown that certain chemicals are released in your brain during workouts, which will increase your overall brain stimulation throughout the day. Aside from that, being physically fit will allow you to accomplish more in a shorter period of time than being overweight.
Meditate Early. Positive thoughts lead to positive results. You can easily become engrossed in your daily activities, so make the most of the day by beginning the day with a morning meditation. Even if you are not a yoga enthusiast, think positive thoughts while taking deep breaths for approximately five to ten minutes.
Eat (a Healthy) Breakfast. Since our days can begin in an instant, we often forget to consume our first meal of the day, which we often replace with a Starbucks on our way to work. Every day, take the time to eat breakfast. Choose foods that are high in protein and contain vitamins and minerals. By doing so, you can improve your mood and balance your appetite for the day ahead.
Limit Coffee Intake. There is nothing better than a good cup of coffee, whether it is from Starbucks, Dunkin Donuts, or your own kitchen. Research has shown that drinking coffee shortly after waking can lead to feelings of anxiety or jitteriness throughout the morning. Thus, it is recommended that you limit yourself to one cup of coffee in the morning.
It is also advisable to wait at least one hour after waking before enjoying your morning coffee. Rather than consuming excessive caffeine through coffee, drink water instead. As a result of keeping you hydrated, water contributes to a healthier lifestyle.
Stay Tuned for Part Two
As your pre-workday comes to an end, it is time to prepare for your daily commute to the office, or to your home office, depending on your work style. While these tips may seem like minor changes to your morning routine, each of them can increase your overall productivity by a small amount. Participating in a variety of morning routines can help you create one that you will look forward to taking part in from the moment you rise in the morning. Stay tuned for part two of this blog to boost your productivity in the workplace. Trust me, it will not disappoint.
