If you spend the better part of your workdays fighting fatigue or trying to remain on task, you are in good company. Distractions and fatigue are common causes of low productivity, and they may be leading reasons why you are not advancing in your career, getting the end-of-year reviews that you want or achieving other important professional goals. Identifying the reasons for your lower productivity is an important first step if you want to resolve your problems. These are some of the effective steps that may help you to stay focused and on task throughout the day.
Fight Fatigue
Do you find yourself drowsing off while sitting at your desk or in long, boring meetings? Fatigue generally indicates that you are not getting enough quality sleep at night. Upgrading your bedding, such as by getting an adjustable bed and a comfortable new pillow, may help you to sleep restfully on a regular basis. You may also sleep better if you get more exercise during the day. Fatigue may be caused by poor nutrition or dehydration, so focusing on total body health may boost your energy level during the day.
Stop Smoking and Vaping
Taking short, planned breaks from work can help you to be more productive. However, many smokers take more breaks than their non-smoking co-workers do. These breaks may be longer as well. Shorter breaks that are used to get your blood pumping and to nourish your body may increase your productivity level at work. Eliminating bad behaviors like these can help you to avoid being your own worst enemy with regards to professional advancement.
Turn off Your Smartphone
Many people keep their smartphone within arm’s length during the workday. They also stop working to glance at it each time it receives a notification. In addition, when your smartphone is visible, you may be more inclined to pick it up and use it to check in with your significant other, to catch up on social media and more. You may glance at your phone at least once or twice every few minutes. Avoid this unnecessary distraction by turning off your smartphone and stashing it in a drawer. Make an effort only to check it during your scheduled breaks and at lunch.
These tips may address the most significant causes of wasted time during your workday. Because other factors may also impact your daily activities, spend time observing your actions so that you identify and correct additional issues.
Brooke Chaplan is a freelance writer and blogger. She lives and works out of her home in Los Lunas, New Mexico. She loves the outdoors and spends most of her time hiking, biking, and gardening. For more information contact Brooke via Twitter @BrookeChaplan.
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