8 Ways to Boost Productivity
It's that time of the year again. Everyone is coming off the holiday high, and returning to school, work, etc. And with that, it's time to reorganize and refocus! Here are 8 tips to help you get started!
1. Write down goals / tasks
Writing down goals makes them clear and gives you a visual aid of what you want to achieve. Whether it's New Year's resolutions or daily tasks, writing them down means you are more likely to complete them, and you feel more satisfaction when you do!
Remember to make them SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-bound). For example: "I want to workout more" can be changed to "I will do a half-hour of cardio and a half-our of pilates on Sundays, Wednesdays, and Fridays this year".
2. Learn to say "no"
If you're already swamped with 21 credit hours, a part-time job, and are also trying to keep a healthy sleep schedule and social life, it's probably okay to say no to some other activities that are less important and/or will take up too much time. Learning to say no to less important events will keep you focused on your goals.
3. Prioritize
List your tasks or goals in order from most important to least important. This will make it easier to focus on what you need the most. To decide this, use the Important/Urgent Chart.
Things that are both urgent and important come first. Things that are important but not urgent come next. After that, come things that are urgent but not important. Finally, things that are neither urgent or important should come last.
4. Plan ahead
Make a study schedule, meal schedule, work schedule, anything! Writing everything down in a monthly calendar or planner will save so much time, and help keep you focused! Check out these articles on school planning and meal planning.
5. Organize your workspace
If you're attempting to work in a cluttered, loud area, you won't be able to focus on what you need. Clear out anything that isn't necessary, and leave only what you need.
6. Keep a note pad and pen
Get a great idea for a recipe while working on a project? Jot it down and save it for later. That way, you can keep focusing on that task at hand, but your idea is written down and you can come back to it when you have time.
7. Deadlines
Even if something doesn't have an outside deadline, set one for yourself. Having a set due date or time will make you much more likely to complete your task or goal!
8. Make a Vision Board
Print things out from pinterest, cut them out of magazines, whatever you want! Put them all on a poster or foam-core board and set it near your workspace to inspire you when your motivation is running low! Being able to see your goals in pictures and short words or phrases will keep you on track!
xoxo,
Audra
