10 Tips to Become More Productive

September is the start of a new school year and for many of us, it is also the unofficial start of a new year.  It is time to get back to routine and to make strategic plans to achieve our set goals.

There are only 24 hours in a day for everyone, but why do some people seem to get more done in the same 24 hours?  Do you want to find out ways to be more productive?

The Importance Of Being Productive

Productive people are often happier and more motivated.  They can focus and generate quality work in the same 24 hours that you and I have.  They make the sales and their customers are happy.  The rewards, both financially and psychologically, act as incentives for them to strive for more.

Risk of Poor Productivity

Negativity often correlates with poor productivity and performance. Relationships with clients and profitability will be affected, which ultimately affects your success.

Tips To Improve Your Productivity

Combine some of these tips in your daily routine to increase your workflow:

1. Don’t just organize your space, organize your thoughts too! When your brain is not in overdrive, it can focus more clearly and efficiently.
2. Tackle the toughest tasks at your optimal productive time. Are you an early bird or a night owl?  Work on the most challenging task at your optimal productive time.
3. Make a plan with concrete steps for success.  Be sure to include all appropriate and executable steps to ensure success.
4. Prioritize. Are some tasks more important than others?  Do you have something with a shorter deadline, therefore more urgent, than something else?  Prioritize based on what needs to be completed.
5. Stay Focused and Stop Multi-tasking. If your brain can only focus on one thing at a time, then multi-tasking will diminish your capacity to each task. 
6. Eliminate distractions. Distractions are time wasters and production inhibitors.  The less distractions there are, the more productive one gets. 
7. It’s ok to say no.  Having someone else do what you don’t want to do, will give you more time and energy to finish what you want/need to do.
8. Create a productive workplace environment. Set up your desk to be efficient and organized.  Have the proper lighting.  Add a plant to spruce up the space.
9. Get inspired – play your favourite songs or add favourite colour in workspace. In addition to a productive workplace, get inspired by playing your favourite songs or adding your favourite colour in the décor.
10. Take breaks – your brain and body will thank you. Stay hydrated, give your eyes a break from the screen, go for a walk, eat something healthy.  Feel refreshed and energized before getting back to the task at hand.
11. Reward yourself on a job well done. Keep yourself motivated by treating yourself to a nice meal, or a long walk.  The reward will serve as an encouragement to strive for more.

Figure out what your productivity challenges are and implement some (or all) of the tips above. Optimize your output and success will follow.