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When it comes to productivity and efficiency, we can be our own worst enemy. By attempting to put all our time and energy into getting work done, we neglect the very tasks necessary for productivity. We skip making the bed, tidying up our work spaces, and creating an environment that fosters efficiency. This means it takes longer to get our work done, and the vicious cycle continues. Break this cycle by implementing these 5 practices into your life. You’ll be all the happier for it.
Organize Your Work Space
I don’t just mean “organize” as in shove things into a few folders and call it a day. I mean take the time to thoughtfully organize all your stuff: from papers, to pens, to post-its. Make things intuitive and simple. The less time you have to spend looking for information, the easier it is to stay on your train of thought. Create an effective system of organization that works specifically for you and how you think. This will remove any unneeded stress from your work station, and it will help you get your work done more efficiently.
Keep Your Desk Top Clean and Simple
Messiness can actually foster creativity. It naturally helps your mind think outside the box, and it allow you to solve problems in unique ways. However, after the brain storm is over, clean things up.
A clear disk promotes productivity. The fewer distractions, the easier it is to keep yourself on track. Keep only the papers and information necessary for the task at hand on your desk and pulled up on your computer. Close out other windows and put away other folders. This will help streamline your thinking and prevent you from stalling midway through because your brain has already moved on to another concern.
Also, decorate your desk in a way that makes you comfortable, but keeps things simple. A few photos, a nice plant, and a couple decorations freshen up the space, but too many elements can make the area feel cluttered.
Clean Out Your Closet Regularly
Although it may be far away from your office, your home can impact your mental clarity. If your closet is overflowing with items you no longer use, and you have to dig through the piles each morning to get dressed, you are adding unnecessary stress to your daily routine. Yes, some items like your great grandfather’s coat are actually sentimental, but most likely you’re holding onto a couple things you can afford to let go of. A good rule of thumb is if you haven’t worn it in the last year, say good bye.
Be sure to drop off your unwanted items at Goodwill or a thrift store so that your clothes can have a second life. If a piece is tattered beyond repair, drop it off at a textile recycling service. Textiles are incredibly resource intensive, but very easy to recycle. Google search one in your area, so you’re old tees don’t end up in a landfill.
3 Wins Each Day
Each day, wake up and make a “to-do” list. The list should include 3 tasks you can accomplish that day. Then get out of bed and get them done. By prioritizing three tasks each day, you can work toward future goals and end each evening with a sense of accomplishment. No matter what else the day threw at you, you can at least say that you had 3 wins. Plus, productivity fosters productivity, and by getting these items done, you’ll inspire yourself to accomplish a little bit more each day.
Crack a Window
There’s nothing like a breath of fresh air. Oftentimes, especially in the afternoon, offices can get stuffy, and your ideas can get stale too. Don’t let the afternoon slip away. Crack a window or head outside for a quick walk around the block. The fresh air will invigorate your mind, and a brisk walk can get the blood (and ideas) flowing.
