At one point in time or another, we have all been in a situation where we are sitting at work and moving at the pace of a turtle. But if you don’t catch up quickly, you are never going to cope up with the work. Every minute of your life is gold, are you treating it that way? There are only two choices if you need to increase productivity at work- either work for more hours or work smarter. I prefer the latter, and I guess so do you.
Productivity is a result of commitment to excellence, intelligent planning and focused effort. Staying productive at work can sometimes be a challenge. There isn’t any universal, “best way” to increase productivity, but here are some beginner steps that tend to work for most people.
1.Set deadlines
You may think that setting deadlines may increase stress which may hinder productivity. But, manageable level of self-imposed stress may help you in terms of increasing focus and meeting your goals. When you are given an open-ended task, try setting a deadline and follow it. To your surprise, you will be more productive and focused when watching the clock.
2. Take a break
It sounds counterproductive, but taking a break at regular time intervals can actually improve concentration. Research has shown that doing a long task without any break will eventually decline your performance. They have given a rule of working in 90 minutes interval. Studies show that people who work in intervals of 90 minutes or less are more productive than the ones who work for 90 minutes-plus. Sounds great, right?
3.Quit Multitasking
We usually have a myth regarding multitasking that it makes us more productive. It doesn’t. Dividing your attention within several tasks may negatively affect your time and productivity. Instead, concentrate on a particular task at a time and move to next one when you are done with it. Managing a single task at a time will increase your focus and tasks will consume lesser time.
4.Prioritizing tasks
Making a to-do list is really common these days. But what is important is prioritizing tasks in the to-do list and start working on the task with highest priority. Once you are done with that task, move to a task with lesser priority. Maintain a to-do list and involve realistic goals in it. Checking items off the list will give you a sense of accomplishment and will motivate you to work towards your goal. You can also prepare a list before coming to the office or on the previous day.
5.Minimize distractions
You might be often tempted to check your mails or messages by that notification alert. Turn off your notification during work. Set a definite time to check your mails, messages and other social media sites but don’t let them determine what your day will be like. Be proactive rather than reactive, so that you do not have to work for longer hours to accomplish the given task before deadline.
These are some tips to increase productivity at work, which you can start implementing from today. These will lower the distractions and increase your focus and dedication towards work.