Day after day most of us go to work, make calls, type away at our computers, or give presentations. Even if you work from home, you still have deadlines, submissions, and a list of chores to complete. Often we might think whether that is all there is to life. But we don’t really have a choice since we all have bills to pay. Thankfully, things need not be mundane and boring. We can all use some tips that help add some fun to our daily routines, enhance productivity, and also make the day go by a lot faster and easier.
No matter if you are working from home or in a cubicle, these strategies can take your performance to a whole new level.
1. Plan ahead
Failing to plan is planning to fail. Start your workday with a plan. Make a list of things to do. Decide to tackle different tasks and assign time-limits and deadlines to each task. Make sure you account for breaks and unforeseen calls. Then start doing the tasks one-by-one ticking them off the list as you go.
2. Tackle the most difficult task first.
Most of us become unproductive or start dreading work when we have a list of chores that we do not like to do. When we go into a task with negativity, it magnifies several times over and that is the last thing we want. So, start with the toughest task on your list. Tackle it slowly and mindfully. Give it your undivided attention. Your day will go by a lot faster and happier when you have finished what you have been dreading.
3. Make sure you have a routine
Routine helps us form good habits. This also includes having a routine outside of work; like exercising in the morning, starting your day with gratitude and meditation, and ending the day with journaling and reflection. These things make sure you stay within the schedule. A routine is especially important if you work from home, otherwise, one can get callous and lazy.
4. Use tools and shortcuts to enhance productivity
We often have an accustomed way of using tools at work. Unfortunately, over time, our habits may unknowingly cause us to waste time or become less productive. To make the usage of your application smarter, find out shortcuts and methods that can aid in faster work completion. When you work smarter, you do not have to work harder. That can make a huge difference in your productivity levels and how smoothly your work goes:
- Enable keyboard shortcuts – For example, in Gmail, you can compose a new message just by clicking the C key (after having enabled keyboard shortcuts).
- Copy-paste applications can also be enabled with keyboard shortcuts
- You can use voice-assistant to make searches and even type your articles/blogs/emails etc
- Use tools to do a Grammar check and instantly correct errors
- Save eye strain by zooming in and out
- Use smart lookup for searching the web
5. Learn more about the tools/applications you are using
If you have recently started using a different application or program, it is a good idea to spend some time thoroughly learning it. Do not hesitate to ask colleagues or even check out tutorials about it online. It will also pay to take a refresher course on it. You may think it is a waste of time, but the efforts will pay off in the long run.
6. Speed up your computer
An easy way to make your workday better is to ensure that the tools and gadgets you use work faster. If you work from home, keep your laptop serviced and updated. Install antivirus and updates as they are released. Delete temporary or unwanted files. Clear your cache and browser history to remove unwanted cookies.
7. Minimize distractions
In order to be better at your job, you must prioritize your work and also minimize distractions. Keep your phone away. Go offline to boost concentration. Focus on completing the given tasks at hand. You can train yourself to complete tasks and only then check your phone/social media as a reward. When you set goals and achieve them, you will feel a lot better about your day. If you work from home, ensure that you are not disturbed by vendors, telephone calls, children, pets, etc.
8. Take frequent breaks
Short breaks can increase productivity. Get up and walk up to the water cooler to have a glass of water. Or walk when you make your work-related calls. This will help you stay fit and also mentally alert. If you work from home, take a short nap, meditate, increase your knowledge, solve a puzzle, or walk your pet. This will relax and calm your mind, ease away stress, and boost productivity.
9. Connect with loved ones
An easy way to make your workday easier is to keep in touch with loved ones. Although you might want to limit texting and calling, you could take short breaks to call someone you love. It could be your partner, parents, siblings, or friends. Speaking and hearing a loved one’s voice can help you feel better and also lessen the burden of work and deadlines. Set up a time to make these calls/texts.
10. Catch up with colleagues
Exchange ideas. Find out how you can help them so you can help each other. When you have a positive and happy environment at work, the workday will always be a lot better. Speak to your boss about how you can improve yourself. Find out what his/her expectations are so you can fulfill them better.
11. Delegate tasks
Do not try to take everything upon yourself. Delegate some tasks to your team members, so you can work faster and more efficiently. This is important to ensure that you get your work done faster.
12. Do not let your work eat into your personal time
Learn to say no. Prioritize the things that matter; your health, your family, vacations, etc. Set boundaries and work within them. This will ensure peace of mind.
Use these simple tips to make your workday better.