Regardless of where you work or what you do, it is likely that you are on the lookout for ways to be more productive.
In the workplace, productivity has become a common workplace jargon that you will encounter often.
It is even used as a performance metric in employee performance reviews.
For some, productivity means “getting the job done with the highest efficiency and the least amount of time.”
However, there is more to productivity than meets the eye—it is more than just checking tasks off your to-do list.
However, in today’s technology-driven and fast-paced world, avoiding distractions and focusing on what you are doing has become increasingly difficult.
How to Make Yourself More Productive
Like most people, you are likely always looking for the best ways to be more productive.
So how can you be more productive?
Below are some productivity tips that can help you become more productive:
Don’t multitask.
Doing ten things all at once can be counterproductive.
Changing tasks multiple times during the day can drop your IQ by at least 10 points.
However, you can get things done more efficiently and effectively by focusing on only one task at a time.
When it comes to productivity, less is more.
That said, it would be best to stick to the basics so you can do more.
Don’t confuse productivity with laziness.
One of the biggest contributors to lost productivity is sheer laziness.
Some so-called time-saving methods, such as sending emails or attending meetings, are used by others as an excuse to get out of doing real and productive work.
As a rule of thumb, you must focus on doing the important things as effectively and efficiently as possible.
Create a system.
Even if you are unaware of it, you have probably developed some habits that ruin your productivity.
Start managing your distracting ways by creating a system.
For instance, if you are someone who checks your emails compulsively, it would be best to decide on a morning, afternoon, and evening time slot to manage your emails.
Otherwise, you will get distracted from accomplishing all the other important goals you intend to accomplish throughout the day.
Tackle difficult tasks before lunch.
You should take on your most challenging tasks before lunch when you and your brain are more alert.
If you have meetings or other work-related activities planned, save them for the afternoon.
When you schedule your workday in the same manner, you can create a more efficient way to manage your time.
Use mornings to focus on yourself.
Checking your email early in the morning is a massive productivity killer, as others will be dictating what you need to accomplish.
You can start your day right by not checking your emails early in the morning and focusing on your morning routine.
Get a good breakfast, meditate, work out, etc.
Focusing on yourself first can help ensure you have the necessary fuel to create a productive day.
Follow the 80/20 rule.
In essence, this rule means only 20 percent of what you do daily will produce 80 percent of your results.
Eliminate those things that are not important during your workday—those tasks that have a minimal effect on your overall productivity.
Case in point: break an important project down into steps and remove tasks that are not important.
The goal is to end up with 20 percent of the tasks that will help deliver 80 percent of the results you are looking for.
Take breaks.
If you feel mentally tired after long work hours, consider that your cue to take a break.
When the brain has used up its glucose, you should give yourself a moment to refresh.
You can grab a snack, take a quick walk, or meditate.
You will return refreshed, recharged, and ready to take on the day.
Cut your to-do list into two.
Being productive does not mean you fit so many tasks into your day.
You don’t need to do those 30 tasks on your to-do list.
Consider the less is more approach by accomplishing the important tasks first.
Love your work.
It’s easy to fall for distractions if you find your work uninteresting or daunting.
You must motivate yourself by remembering that you are a contributor to the organisation and that your work matters.
If you love your work, you will also develop a sense of purpose and appreciate your work more.
You will stay more focused when you feel more involved with your work.
Group similar tasks.
One of the keys to productivity is rhythm.
Once you get that going, there is no stopping you.
When you do various tasks after another, the rhythm can get broken, and you can lose focus.
To do more, consider grouping similar tasks together, so it is easier for you to focus and do more.
Plan your day.
To increase your productivity, it would help if you plan your day.
Start by setting daily goals.
If you have a massive project that you need to tackle, start by breaking them down into small tasks and incorporate them into your daily tasks for the day.
When setting a daily goal, you must ensure it is both achievable and realistic.
While it is a good idea to push yourself to the limit and set ambitious objectives and goals, it can take a toll on you in the long run if they are not realistic.
Know what your limitations are and set your goals accordingly.
Make a to-do list.
A to-do list can remind you of your goals and help you stay in sync with the timelines you have identified.
The most important tasks must rank high on your list.
The sooner you can get them out of the way, the better.
Manage your time accordingly.
All the tasks you do should be time-bound.
More importantly, you should follow timelines, meet deadlines, and complete tasks without fail.
If you miss a deadline, the rest of your plan can also get derailed.
Time management can be simplified by following the plan you have created.
If you can stick to the schedules and timelines you have identified, you have mastered time management.
In addition, try to avoid any possible delays when you take up a task.
Procrastinating and postponing a task are bad habits that can hinder you from staying focused and accomplishing more.
Conclusion
Aside from the effective tips mentioned above, it is also crucial to maintain a healthy lifestyle to accomplish more mentally and physically. A healthy lifestyle can also help you find the focus you need to get more done. Some beneficial lifestyle habits you should incorporate into your daily life include eating nutritious and healthy foods, getting enough sleep, exercising, keeping yourself hydrated, meditating, etc.