Take Regular Breaks
A lack of productivity is a sign that you aren’t taken enough breaks. When you find yourself procrastinating, step away from the desk – or whatever you’re doing – and take a break.
It just has to be five minutes of your time. The best thing to do is walk around so that your whole body feels refreshed.
Recognise the Signs of Procrastinating
You can procrastinate without realising. You may be doing research and end up going deeper than you need to or you may start booking your flights abroad.
Instead of allowing yourself to procrastinate, know the signs. This will tell you when a break is needed or when you just need to get on with your work!
Turn Off the Phone
You don’t need your phone on while you work, unless you have a lot of business calls. While you will need to check your emails, turn off the alerts and check them every two hours or so.
These steps will cut out the distractions that affect your productivity. You know you have a set amount of time to get a project done so use that time wisely.
Shut the Door!
It is tempting to keep the door open, especially if you want to stay up to date with the team or to hear your children but shutting the door will help make it clear that you are busy.
You will not be tempted to listen in on the gossip or interact with your team members. When you are ready for a break or on lunch, open your door and make it clear you are free.
Make Your Environment Work for You
If you work, set your desk in a way that everything is easy to use. Clear it at the end of the day and don’t let the work pile grow too much. If you’re studying, find a way to do it that makes you want to do more.
You need to be comfortable and have everything easy to reach so that you are more productive with your time.
Organise Your Space
You need to make sure everything is well organised. This includes your home!
You don’t want to constantly look at piles of dirty clothes or the folders that need filing away, knowing that they need doing at some point. Spend a day organising everything and then keep it that way!
Turn on the Music
People often need background noise to help them work so turn on the music. This will not distract you like the gossip and can help your mood.
Fast music can help you when you’re on a deadline while slow music can help you study.