Fresh Productivity Tips That Can Change Your 2018
Maybe you’re finding yourself staying late at the office during the week? Or possibly even on the weekends? You’re struggling to stay afloat and meet deadlines and you can’t remember the last time you were early, much less on time for a meeting. If you’re nodding your head reading this then read on to find out what you can do to boost your productivity and get your work and personal life back on track.
Maybe you’re finding yourself staying late at the office during the week? Or possibly even on the weekends? You’re struggling to stay afloat and meet deadlines and you can’t remember the last time you were early, much less on time for a meeting. If you’re nodding your head reading this then read on to find out what you can do to boost your productivity and get your work and personal life back on track.
1. Make Your Own Deadlines
No, (unfortunately) we don’t mean override the deadline your boss gave you. We’re just saying a second, self-created deadline certainly doesn’t hurt.
You should consider your self-created deadline the “official” deadline that you do everything in your power to meet. Think of the actual deadline as Plan B, only used in case an impromptu project comes up.
2. Take Advantage of the Technology Age
We live in a world inundated by technology—why not take advantage of it by installing and using productivity apps like Wunderlist and Trello.
Wunderlist
Wunderlist is a great go-to for making online lists. You can create your own categories and get the pleasure of hearing a bing! every time you check an item off.
Wunderlist is also versatile; you can sync it to multiple devices—and it even sends you text and email reminders about upcoming list items.
For a great overview of using Wunderlist as an organisation tool check out Heidi Aexander‘s “How I Use Wunderlist To Get Things Done”
Trello
Like Wunderlist, Trello uses lists; however, the online app incorporates them into boards users can create to keep track of different projects.
Students can use Trello to stay on top of multiple assignments from classes. And, those in the corporate and freelance world can take be mindful of proposals, reports, and work-related projects.
Want to know more about Trello? Read “How I 10xed My Productivity With Trello And Organized My Entire Life, Projects And Businesses” by Embolden.
3. Have a Physical and Virtual Planner
Some may say physical planners are on the out and virtual planners are here to stay. But when the electricity cuts out or your computer crashes, a physical planner comes in handy.
Depending on your productivity preferences, you don’t have to primarily use the physical planner. However, we recommend that you do update it and use it as a backup should you not have access to your virtual planner.
That aside, keeping—and, more importantly using – a planner gets all of the due dates and deadlines floating around in your head out on paper – (or online?).
It decreases the chances of you forgetting about an upcoming assignment or project and makes it easier for you to break down that large task into bite-sized, doable to-dos.
4. Set a Before and After-Work Routine
Routine is grounding, to say the least. Which is why you need to incorporate it into your workday. Don’t just limit your routine to the office; a solid before- and after-work routine can prepare you for your workday and help you rewind after it’s over.
For some, part of that routine is a piping cup of hot java. For coffee-loving worker bees, you may want to use Insider Tips on How to Brew 10/10 Coffee by Home Grounds to brew the perfect batch.
In any case, you may also want to include a solid hour of no electronics before bed so you get a better night’s sleep.
Final Thoughts: Leave Room for Spontaneity
For some, planning may seem like a chore and, yes, even a prison. But it doesn’t have to be. You don’t have to just plan for and around your work schedule. Save some time for spontaneity.
By mapping out a good couple of hours during your week for just “you” time, you give yourself a break to relax and recharge. Doing this will leave you refreshed and ready to get ahead and make 2018 your most productive year yet. Any other productivity tips? Leave a comment below.