Are you feeling like you get to the end of each day and your to-do list has not gotten any smaller? Do you feel like in this age of technology that things should just be easier? Here are 5 practical ways to be more productive and maybe even free up some time to focus on more things you enjoy.
- Move all of your calendars to one spot.
At the beginning of last year, I had a wall calendar, a paper calendar, and a calendar on my phone. And I had different things written on each one. Plus, they did not include my husband’s schedule which often caused issues with family scheduling. So, we decided to move to one online calendar that has everything for the family on it and we can all see it and add to it.
This small shift has made a huge impact on overall productivity. Everything I need is in one place and everyone has all of the same information so we are all able to get the most out of our days.
- Try a 30 Day Social Media Detox Challenge.
The average daily usage of social media is 2 hours and 27 minutes. (source) We can’t deny that this significant amount of time interferes with productivity, hobbies, family time and other activities we could be participating in during our free time.
A social media detox challenge is a complete disconnect from all social media. Stepping away from an overuse of social media could improve physical and mental health, as well as relationships. For more tips and benefits of completing a 30 day Social Media Detox Challenge look here.
- Take purposeful breaks.
A key to being productive is often to give yourself regular breaks. In the case of being more productive, try refreshing your brain and body by taking a walk outside, having a healthy snack that includes a protein and a carbohydrate, listening to music, or meditating. Sometimes, even standing up and stretching for a few minutes does the trick to help you refocus.
- Get more sleep.
This is something we all struggle with, but it can make an extremely huge difference on our concentration power. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night. Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day and turn off all screens at least 30 minutes before you want to sleep each night. If there is something you want to change about your bedroom that would improve sleep, now is the time.
- Give your work environment a makeover.
Does your back and neck tire quickly when sitting in your office chair? Do you feel a lot of eye strain by mid-day? Figure out what you need to make yourself more comfortable while you are working.
- If possible have plenty of natural light
- Have a supportive chair, large enough screen, and a comfortable mouse if you do a lot of computer work.
- Organize your desk for efficient use.
Simple and practical tips can help you be more productive in the new year which will free up time for the things you love.
“Productivity isn’t about being a workhorse. Keeping busy or burning the midnight oil…It’s more about priorities, planning, and fiercely protecting your time.”-Gary Keller