Ending the day feeling like you haven’t done enough or even worse lying in bed thinking about everything you need to do, is the worst. I can’t promise that your list of tasks will ever go down. But I can promise that magic happens when you use your time more efficiently. Not only do you get more done, but you feel more accomplished and less stressed. Here is a summary of the best productivity hacks for your time management at work.
-
Set specific times for emails
I used to waste SO much time sifting through emails, throughout the day. All it takes is one email notification and you’ve wasted 30 minutes responding. What you should do is choose two times a day to do emails. I recommend once before lunch and once more before finishing up your work day, that way it doesn’t accidentally seep into your work time.
-
The two minute rule
If a task pops up and you can do it within 2 minutes then just do it, immediately. If not, appropriately slot it somewhere else in the day. By dictating how much time you spend on an unexpected task, you gain control over becoming side-tracked. It works wonders for your productivity – this rule is a real life-saver.
-
Use site blockers
100% necessary if you are a social media procrastinator. You really don’t want to think about how much time you waste on these sites. Just block them when you are working and never look back. Just go to Google and type into search “site blocker,” you’ll easily find a great one to use.
-
Use templates
Use them for emails, blogs or even contracts. Are you responding to email requests a lot? Do you send email updates, or newsletters? By creating templates you can save a HUGE amount of time.
-
Start your day tough
This is my absolute favorite. Instead of sticking with the, “I’ll do it later” mentality, if a task is big or daunting just rip off the band-aid and DO IT first thing in the morning. It’s like doing a really exhilarating work out – you will love yourself after and you start your day right with proven increases in productivity.
-
Work near natural light
Obviously not easy for everyone but try and do your absolute best to achieve this. Studies show that simply working near natural light (i.e. sun light) improves sleep, wellbeing and in turn your productivity levels. So, try and sit near a window (an open one would be most ideal) when possible for boosts in productivity and sleep.