I often get asked about work productivity as I have a home based office so I thought I’d share some tips for the season.
At this time of year it can be hard to stay motivated and achieve good work productivity. It’s only the beginning of December and there has already been one too many Christmas party and everyone I speak to is pretty tired and ready for the holidays already. Here are a few ways I stay productive and get through the work.
1. Set achievable goals
I make daily “to-do” lists either on paper or in my head. They have to be realistic goals that I will be able to achieve that day. Where possible I try and start with my least liked job to get it out of the way. I also give myself little rewards when I finish a job on days where my motivation might be dipping. If I don’t get a deadline given to me I’ll often let people know when I’m likely to get it to them to keep accountable and stay on task.
2. Know when to say ‘no’
In an ideal world I would go to every Christmas function I get invited to because they’re enjoyable. I know I wouldn’t get through the work if I did though, so have had to say no to a few to keep my sanity. If you can’t catch up with someone before Christmas arrange a January catch up with them instead. People often appreciate that more when we’re all so busy.
3. Use technology
There are heaps of apps out there to aid in productivity. I have just started using unroll me which keeps your email free of clutter by bundling up all your subscriptions and sending them to you together in 1 email at a time you specify. You can also use it to easily see all your subscriptions and unsubscribe with 1 easy click. I haven’t tried them but Cold Turkey and Rescue Time can temporarily block sites that might be distracting.
4. Look after yourself
Get enough sleep, stay hydrated, eat well and exercise, (I wouldn’t say I’m very good at the exercise bit but 3/4 isn’t bad!) After all, you’re not going to be productive if you get sick.
5. Know when you work best
Where possible, I try and schedule things at times when I work best. I am most productive in the afternoon so I get things done quicker then. I also try and do creative tasks when I’m feeling more creative and administrative tasks when I’m feeling less creative. As much as I don’t like working in the weekend, Saturday is often extremely productive as there are no emails or calls to be interrupted by.
6. Schedule ‘in’ days and ‘out’ days.
Nothing interrupts good work flow and productivity like a meeting. When I can I try and schedule meetings back to back on the same day and also run errands then too. I then have days in the office when I can get stuck in and gets lots done without stopping. Obviously meetings are often necessary but find out if they really need you there or not.
What things help you stay productive at work, particularly in the “silly season”?
By Karen McEldowney
Photo credit: Jeff Sheldon