Every day can be productive at certain times, but it’s tricky to sustain that productivity. Many people start their day with optimal energy and productivity, only to have their efforts wane as the day progresses.
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Productivity tends to come in spurts, but here are some ideas for maintaining top efficiency on an ongoing basis:
- Set a morning routine – Establishing a morning routine can help boost your output. It’s important to stick to that routine to turn it into a habit. If 5 a.m. is your chosen wake-up time, keep it consistent. Designate all of the activities that you will complete during the morning hours and do them daily. Pretty soon, you will notice that your morning routine is already established, and it will be hard to deviate from it.
- Track your day – Things only happen when you make them happen. Whether you use a computer, phone, or a hand-written list, start each day by laying out your to-dos, including checking your email, going through paperwork, making phone calls, etc.
- Know yourself – Accept tasks that will fall within your skillset, experience, and expertise. Do not agree to do things that are beyond your capabilities. Otherwise, you could end up discouraged and frustrated. Doing things within your field of interest will squeeze your creative juices. Doing things that don’t interest you or don’t match your abilities can often cause you to stagnate.
- Take mental breaks – Everybody needs time to refresh, but taking time off does not mean that you need to be idle. You can take a break from your normal work and also be involved in productive activities, such as reading, listening to your favorite music, or doing volunteer work for worthy causes.
- End with a routine – The end of the day must also follow a routine, such as bonding with your family. Wrap up your emails, finish your phone calls, and clean up your desk. Then leave work at work and focus on relationships, personal time, and getting adequate rest for the next day.
Productivity is like a muscle. As you establish healthy habits and routines, you’re setting yourself up to be more and more efficient on the job and more content in other areas of your life.
