Transform Your Workday with These 10 Productivity Tips and Techniques
Improving productivity is a goal shared by many in various fields and industries, and it is essential to make the most of the limited time available. According to a study conducted by McKinsey & Company, the average employee spends about 28% of their workweek reading and answering emails, which can be a significant hindrance to productivity. Here are ten evidence-based tips to help you improve your productivity:
1. Create a to-do list:
People who create a to-do list tend to be more productive than those who don't. According to research conducted by the University of California, Davis, making a list of tasks helps to reduce anxiety and increase productivity. It also helps to focus on critical tasks, which leads to better outcomes.
2. Use a productivity app:
There are numerous productivity apps available that can help improve productivity. For example, Trello can help with project management and Dojon with time management of each tasks. These apps can help reduce wasted time, track progress, and prioritize tasks effectively.
3. Break up your day:
Working for long periods without taking breaks can lead to burnout and decreased productivity. It has been scientifically proven that working in timed intervals to break large tasks into more manageable sessions helps to maximize productivity.
4. Eliminate distractions:
The average employee is interrupted every 11 minutes, which can hinder productivity. According to a study conducted by the University of California, Irvine, it can take up to 23 minutes to refocus on a task after being interrupted. To combat this, it is essential to eliminate distractions such as social media notifications, phone calls, and emails.
5. Use the Pomodoro technique:
The Pomodoro technique involves working for 25 minutes, followed by a five-minute break. After four Pomodoros, take a more extended break of 15-30 minutes. According to a study published in the International Journal of Technology and Human Interaction, this technique can help improve time management, focus, and motivation.
6. Prioritize your tasks:
Not all tasks are equally important and urgent, and it is essential to prioritize them. According to research conducted by Harvard Business Review, prioritizing critical tasks and tackling them early in the day can help to reduce stress for the rest of the day and maximize efficiency.
7. Take care of your health:
According to a study conducted by the Harvard Business Review, employees who exercise regularly are more productive and have lower healthcare costs. Additionally, getting enough sleep and eating a healthy diet can help boost energy levels, leading to better productivity.
8. Learn to say no:
Agreeing to every request or invitation can lead to a packed schedule and decreased productivity. According to research conducted by the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, people who have difficulty saying no are more likely to experience stress, burnout, and exhaustion.
9. Get organized:
A cluttered workspace can lead to a cluttered mind. According to research conducted by the National Association of Professional Organizers, a cluttered workspace can lead to lost productivity, as much as 90 minutes per day.
10. Stay motivated:
Staying motivated is key to improving productivity. According to a study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology, setting goals and receiving feedback on progress can help improve motivation and productivity. Rewards for accomplishments can also help maintain motivation levels.
All in all, these ten evidence-based tips can help improve productivity by reducing wasted time, increasing focus, and prioritizing critical tasks.