“If there are nine rabbits on the ground, if you want to catch one, just focus on one.” - Jack Ma
Life can often be hectic and demanding, and at times, it seems like we have more things to do than time in the day. We get so obsessed with the idea of being busy that we forget about our own well-being and ways to be efficient. Whether you are working, studying or running your home, making small changes to your daily habits can make a big difference in your productivity, energy, and efficiency levels. So, let's discuss what tips you can apply to improve your productivity.
1. One Thing At A Time
While multitasking can feel like you can do more in less time, it's quite often tiring. Earn K. Miller, a neuroscience professor, says multitasking is not something humane. It's just us humans playing with our brains, thinking we will get more done in less time. Studies show that if you focus on one task at a time, you save more time as you get to fully focus on the task and avoid making unnecessary mistakes. Try to limit your to-do list to 3-4 things a day to avoid overwhelming yourself.
2. Understand What Time Of Day Works For You
To improve your productivity, understand what time of the day works best for you. For example, you may find that doing some analysis or creative design works best in the morning and catching up on emails works best in the afternoon. Tasks can be completed a lot quicker when you understand what time of day you're more efficient in. Try these Chronotype Quiz or Early Bird or Night Owl
3. Take Regular Short Breaks In Between Tasks
Remember to take short breaks if you're feeling unproductive in your studies, at work, or running errands. Taking regular breaks between monotonous tasks helps improve you clear your mind and improve creativity levels and your ability to perform better. This can be as little as going for a quick walk to stretch your legs to get a change of environment or some yoga to improve mindfulness. If you only pause when you're exhausted and can no longer function, you’re not doing your mind or body any justice.
4. Follow The 5 Second Rule
Mel Robbins, an American lawyer, and motivational speaker has helped thousands of people by introducing them to her 5-second rule. According to her rule, whenever you have to do something but find yourself procrastinating, "you must physically move within 5 seconds, or your brain will kill it". Next time you find yourself struggling to get something done, count down from 5 and get started.
5. De-clutter your workspace
One thing that affects your ability to concentrate is the environment you're working in. If your workspace or home feels overwhelming, you can easily get distracted and it can cause you to feel stressed and anxious. Arrange your tables, chairs, books, organize your drawers, empty your bin, and add any decorative items that make you feel good, and you'll feel an immediate release of any mental clutter and it helps your ability to focus and relax better.
6. Music
The joy of music. Listening to music helps the brain release dopamine, boosts your productivity & focus, and helps you fly through your tasks. This can make working or studying feel more enjoyable. Choose music that won't distract you and that you're familiar with so you can concentrate on your tasks than the music.
I know it sounds obvious, but you'll be surprised how many meals people skip in a day because they are too busy and forget to eat. Nutritious food doesn't only help you with your energy levels, but it also boosts brain power. Our brains need food to function. Don't forget to stay hydrated, too. Dehydration impairs your cognitive performance, and, if you drink enough, it makes you get up to use the bathroom and move around.
I hope you've been able to find some tips to improve your productivity and make your day run as smoothly as possible. As much as we would like everyday to be productive, always remember to be kind to yourself. Even a relaxing day can be a productive day.
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Lots of love,
NESS & ME