The desire to slack off, to do nothing and to simply procrastinate until the day is over is strong in us.
Especially if our day is moving extremely slow or simply just because we're sitting at our desk sick for the third time this month. I sometimes find myself in similar situations at work particularly as we near the end of the year.
I sometimes also just scream inwardly "OMG will you hurry up?" after checking the time for the fifth time that day.
Image from pinterest.com
If you're ever like me and have found yourself in a similar situation then scroll on down as we both try new ways to become more productive and a functioning working adult.
1. Three major things
Every day before we start our day, it is best to go through all the things that we currently have on your plate. Once that’s done get to segmenting them to 'major tasks' and 'minor tasks'
Then out of the many important major tasks you have, decide which ones are the most important that you need get done. Pick three and off we go! (Note you could also combine smaller task to form one big task)
One of the best ways I’ve found that really helps with this decision would be to base it off
- Time – When do you have to get this task done by?
- Amount (size) – How long would it take for you to complete this task
- Effort – How much energy would you have to put in to complete this task?
2. Be consistent
The thing about us as human beings is that we are a creature of habit. In order for us to be productive, we need to be consistent in all things we do. That means starting your day the exact same way every day. It could be have an awesome sauce breakfast or it could be to check your emails whatever it is just keep repeating it and you will notice a change.
3. Take care of yourself
This may be a no brainer but sometimes when we are so caught up with our projects and want to get things done as soon as we can, that often times we tell ourselves that ‘we’re still young, our body can take it’ is when we begin to neglect out well being. I have a sinking suspicion that this kind of mentality has led to more and more cases of young people having back problems early in life, or having some illness that are more common amongst older people.
Most people would say you would need sufficient sleep but exercise is also important in leading a balance more productive life. It may be difficult to take time after a long day at work to motivate yourself to go to the gym or for a job, and then get enough sleep on top of that but here are a few ways you can exercise at work.
4. Take a break
Take a break at work or from work. Our bodies need time to recharge, just like any device we too need to be plugged into an energy source once we are running low.
Another thing you could try would be to also try meditating, it will probably take about 10 – 15 minutes of your time. Before you head out for lunch or in between lunch and the end of the day, take time off and simply try and relax yourself. Sit in a quiet corner and clear your head. Think about nothing as you inhale and exhale
5. Don't sweat the small stuff
What good will is there if we are forever worrying about things we’ve done wrong? Focus on things we can do to be better. In the pursuit of making things better.
Remember as long as we're working towards being a better person, does it really matter what minor mistakes we've made in the past?
Those are the five things I’ve been trying to get me to be more productive. If you could identify with the things I’ve said, have got any questions or want to just say Hi, leave your comments in the section below or email me at elisha@thrivingtalents.com.
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