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Productivity is a term commonly used in and out of the workplace. Still, its definition can vary depending on your specific job role or the daily tasks you complete weekly. As a writer, you use productivity to measure how many articles you have to write by a specific deadline or if you work in retail sales and have to estimate your sales per hour. It's important to remember that productivity isn't a one-size-fits-all concept. It can be challenging to quantify because the results aren't always easily measurable or absolute. So, if you're struggling to define your productivity, know you're not alone.
You may feel overwhelmed and pressured to maximize your time like many others. We all have a lot on our plates and limited hours to accomplish everything. Please continue reading if you're eager to eliminate distractions, silence that nagging voice, and concentrate on what truly matters. Here’s a list of sharing tips to help you filter out the noise and become more productive.
Tips Include:
It's easy to label procrastination as a personality trait, but the reality is that it's a common human tendency. We all struggle with staying focused and on-task occasionally, but there are ways to minimize distractions and increase productivity.
One of the biggest culprits of distraction is our smartphones. It's essential to take control of our devices by turning off notifications and removing unnecessary apps from our home screens. Consider placing your phone in a separate room or switching it to airplane mode to prevent interruptions and maintain flow.
Throughout the day, we are burdened with various life admin tasks. While addressing some of these tasks is necessary, it is crucial to remember that our actions teach others how to value our time. If we continue to send emails late into the evening, our teammates will assume that they can reach us at any hour of the day, regardless of any other plans you have throughout the day. By always saying yes and replying to texts about any and everything, we create the expectation that we are the ones who will handle last-minute tasks.
Instead, it is crucial to establish boundaries, communicate the expected project timelines to others, and not hesitate to express when a deadline seems unrealistic. It is also beneficial to establish consistent times to check and respond to emails throughout the day, such as at the beginning, middle, and end of the workday.
It's easy to fall into the trap of thinking that pushing yourself to the limit will lead to success, but it often leads to burnout and procrastination. I know from personal experience that refusing to take breaks can make you feel anxious and resentful towards your work. If you fall behind on your tasks, don't force yourself to stay up all night to catch up. Instead, adjust your to-do list for the next day and give yourself the rest you need. Remember, we're only human and need balance to maintain our sanity. Take care of yourself; your work will benefit you in the long run.
We have all fallen into the trap of thinking that if we just keep pushing ourselves a little longer, we will be able to accomplish more. Short breaks can be beneficial, similar to taking power naps when needed. By taking frequent breaks like a sip of water, catching your breath, or breathing mindfully, you could put your tasks into perspective and know when to pace yourself.
However, it's important to approach these breaks strategically and with intention. Instead of scrolling on your phone, leave your device at your desk and step outside for fresh air or outside your working area if still inside. By doing so, you'll recharge your mind and body and enhance your overall well-being to be in the present moment.
It’s human nature to complete easy tasks first as they can be part of your routine and that you know from the back of your hand as muscle memory. As humans, we naturally seek immediate gratification and tend to avoid challenges. It's satisfying to cross something off our to-do list and experience that dopamine rush.
However, consider prioritizing the most challenging task first. When we tackle a difficult task right away, it creates positive momentum for the rest of our tasks. It may seem daunting initially, but you will feel a sense of accomplishment and confidence once you overcome that hurdle. Focusing on the complex task first lets you move on to the easier ones and enjoy those quick wins. Remember, motivation builds upon itself, and once you conquer the toughest challenge, everything else will feel more manageable.
Perfectionism hinders your productivity. When our expectations of ourselves do not align with reality, we sometimes feel inadequate. We hesitate, constantly worrying that our efforts are not good enough, and we doubt ourselves before attempting anything.
If you are tired of the constant battle between yourself and your inner critic, it is time to let go of perfectionism or the will to be perfect in everything you do, even if it's small. Embrace the understanding that you are worthy and capable just as you are.
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