Let’s be honest: staying productive from morning until evening can be tough. Whether it’s the mid-morning slump or the dreaded afternoon lull, many employees find their energy and focus dwindling as the day goes on. But with the right strategies, it’s possible to maintain a steady level of productivity that not only gets the job done but also leaves you feeling accomplished. Here are five tried-and-tested approaches that can help you maintain produtivity.
Try the Pomodoro Technique
Ever tried working in short, focused bursts? The Pomodoro Technique is all about that. It’s a simple method where you work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. After four of these cycles, you reward yourself with a longer break. This technique helps keep your mind sharp and prevents the burnout that comes from trying to power through long, uninterrupted periods of work.
A study from the University of Sussex backs this up, showing that people who use the Pomodoro Technique experience improved concentration and less mental fatigue. By breaking the day into manageable chunks, you stay engaged with your work and maintain a higher level of productivity.
Create a Prioritised Task List the Evening Before
Do you start your mornings wondering what to tackle first? Skip the decision fatigue by planning your tasks the evening before. When you walk into the office (or log on from home), you’ll already have a clear plan of action, which means you can dive straight into your work without wasting time.
The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) found that employees who make a to-do list the night before are more likely to tackle high-priority tasks early in the day. This not only leads to a greater sense of achievement but also helps keep the momentum going, ensuring that your productivity stays consistent throughout the day.
Make the Most of Natural Light and Take Regular Walks
How much time do you spend in natural light during your workday? The answer could impact your productivity more than you think. Research from the University of Exeter shows that employees who are exposed to natural light are more alert and productive. So, if possible, position your workspace near a window or take short breaks outside.
Additionally, regular walks – especially outside – can clear your mind and improve focus. Just a 10-minute stroll can do wonders for your energy levels and cognitive function, helping you to stay productive throughout the day.
Use Mindfulness Apps for Short Breaks
Ever feel like your brain is running on empty? Taking a few minutes to reset can make all the difference. Mindfulness apps like Headspace or Calm offer short, guided sessions that help you de-stress and refocus. Just a five-minute session can be enough to clear your head and get you back on track.
The UK Mindfulness Initiative reports that mindfulness in the workplace leads to better attention and emotional regulation. Many companies now encourage using these apps during breaks, and employees often find that they return to their work with renewed energy and concentration.
Adopt “Reverse Scheduling”
What if, instead of fitting your breaks around your work, you scheduled your work around your breaks? That’s the idea behind reverse scheduling, where you start by planning your downtime and then fit your tasks around it. This ensures you don’t overwork yourself and guarantees time for relaxation, which can actually make you more productive during working hours.
Reverse scheduling prioritises personal time to help employees feel more balanced and less stressed, leading to sustained productivity and a better work-life balance.
Your 5 Next Steps
- Try the Pomodoro Technique: Work in focused 25-minute intervals with short breaks to maintain concentration and avoid burnout.
- Plan Tomorrow’s Tasks Tonight: Create a prioritised task list the evening before to start your day with clarity and purpose.
- Get More Natural Light and Walk More: Position your workspace near a window and take regular outdoor walks to boost your energy and focus.
- Use Mindfulness Apps During Breaks: Reset your mind with short mindfulness sessions using apps like Headspace or Calm.
- Experiment with Reverse Scheduling: Schedule your work around your breaks to maintain energy levels and prevent overworking.
By incorporating these strategies into your daily routine, you’ll find it easier to stay productive from morning to evening. Whether you’re tackling big projects or managing day-to-day tasks, these approaches will help you keep your focus sharp and your productivity high. Ready to take control of your workday? Start with these steps today!