Are you getting the most out of your work day? Some days it might seem like there is more on your to-do list than could possibly be done in one day. Before you start working longer hours, make sure that you are making the most out of your time. Follow these simple strategies for a more productive work day.
1. Don’t Multitask. Having the ability to multitask is a highly sought after skill in most workplaces. While there may be times when you will have to multitask, avoid doing it when you can. Studies have shown that attempting to focus on 2 or more tasks at a time actually wastes more time. Focus on one task and give it all your energy before moving on to the next, and you will find that you can get much more done.
2. Don’t Try to be Perfect. Let’s face it, we all want to be perfect at everything we do. However, that is an unattainable goal. We are only human and can’t work at 100% all the time. Holding yourself to unreasonable standards will only increase your anxiety and decrease your productivity. Set your sights to doing each task as well as you possibly can in that moment, and come back to it later if needed.
3. Eat Well. What you eat has a large impact on how you perform at work. Be sure to eat lots of foods that contain plenty of antioxidants, vitamins and nutrients, protein, and fiber. Snack on blueberries, strawberries, nuts – especially pecans, sunflowers, and almonds for peak brain function throughout the day. Sugar might give you a short burst of energy, but you will inevitably crash and lose focus, so avoid those break room donuts!
4. Exercise. Regular exercise has a profound positive effect on your health and wellbeing, and that also extends to the workplace. Exercise helps you stay focused by increasing blood flow to the brain. It may seem counterintuitive, but exercising will actually give you more energy. This is because exercise increases your body’s oxygen and glucose transfer. So while you may be tired after an intense workout, you will actually have more energy during your day to day activities. Check out our blog post here for more advice on sticking to an exercise routine.
5. Take Breaks. Recent studies have indicated that taking breaks throughout the work day is actually more beneficial to productivity than working relentlessly. Constant stimulation from an activity causes your brain to perceive that activity as no longer meaningful, therefore causing your attention to waver. So it is important to take occasional breaks while working to maintain your focus and drive.
Make today the day you start working smarter, better, and making the most of every hour!
