Productivity Tips

My career revolves around productivity. We have to be above 90% productive every day. So I think I’m pretty good at time management. Of course, the productivity I have in my job is very different than those who probably work from home. According an article written in Forbes, “25% of all professional jobs in North America will be remote by the end of 2022, and remote opportunities will continue to increase through 2023”. If you are someone who is working remote, here are some Productivity Tips.

Create a to-do list for every day of the week

If you’re like me, you may try to be an over-achiever when it comes to your work. Finishing tasks early may be something you try to do more often than not. But in order to improve your productivity (and probably the effectiveness of your work), create a to-do list for every day. Only write down the tasks that need to be completed that day, and put the rest off for tomorrow. This will keep you on track and also probably help with having some good work-life balance. This is one of my biggest productivity tips.

Complete the important/biggest projects first

When you first start working for the day, you are refreshed after (hopefully) getting a full lights sleep. You are probably thinking clearer and have more motivation first thing in the morning. If you get the largest project done first, the remainder of you day will probably seem way less overwhelming and manageable.

Set a timer

If you have various projects you need to get done in one day, try setting a timer. This will help prevent you from spending all of your time on one project. But only do this if all of our tasks aren’t necessarily needing to get done that day. Use a timer as a reminder that there are other important projects you need to get done. You can also use a timer to remind yourself to take necessary breaks throughout the day!

Take your breaks

I know it’s easy to skip your breaks throughout the workday. Especially if you are someone who wants to push through and finish the project. But breaks are extremely important to give your mind the reset it needs. Using your breaks appropriately (Eating a healthy lunch, drinking water, getting in movement) is essential to give your mind and body the reset that it needs during a busy day.

Find a space that won’t distract you

As much as I love to listen to background music or have television, it’s not always the most productive option. If you’re someone who needs a quiet space to get work done, try to find a space at your office (or at home) where there are minimal distractions. This will vary person to person – so try to figure out what setting is the least distracting.

Use your off days to get organized

Of course, who wants to work on the weekends? I’m definitely not telling you to work on the weekends. But I am suggesting that you use your off days wisely. If you know your upcoming work week is going to be a busy one plan accordingly. Use your Sunday to create your to-do lists. Make sure your computer, papers, files, or any other working essentials are organized and ready to go. You don’t want to spend Monday morning running around trying to get yourself organized and planned for the week. Take 10-15 minutes over the weekend (or on your off day) to help prepare you work week for success.

If you are someone who struggles during the work week, I hope these productivity tips are helpful for you.