5 Steps to More Productive Work Days

Life can be messy especially with its unforeseen stresses. These stressful situations can derail us and have us spending more time than necessary on trying to fix them. Taking on too much can also have the unwanted effect of making us ineffective in getting any work done.

Here are 5 ways you can be more productive and get more out of your work days.

1. Keep things in specific places

Nothing wastes more time than walking around the house frantically looking for your keys, or your glasses (especially when you can’t see) or even your phone. This can be easily avoided by having designated places where things are kept. If you have too much clutter to even organize properly, declutter first and then assign designated places for items that you use regularly.

2. Keep a daily planner

With all the busyness of life, a daily planner is incredibly important. A planner helps you keep track of what you need to get done. Make sure the most urgent things are at the top. Even better, make to do lists and check the items off the list as you go through the day or week. Also try and keep a routine to help you get more done.

3. Limit social media use

Unless social media is your primary job, keep it at the minimum. Twitter, Facebook and Instagram are amazing ways to interact with awesome people and ideas, but are also a huge distraction when you’re trying to get some work done. Emails are also not exempt. Schedule a specific time to read and respond emails so that you don’t spend too much time on it during the day.

4. Delegate

You can’t do everything. Also, the concept that to get anything done right requires you to do it yourself, is moot. Continued success requires support from a team and it’s important to trust those you work with to execute their part of the work.

5. Schedule breaks

You’re not a machine. Though to be honest, even machines need a break. Don’t push too hard. Take breaks to stretch your legs, socialize and relax. Make sure you also take the time to eat proper meals and sleep as well as get some exercise.

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