When we think about “productivity” let’s not view it as “how much can I get done in a day?” but more as “how can I feel about the work I am doing”. In hustle culture, we put so much pressure on ourselves to perform and get as much done as possible. I am not encouraging you to hustle more, but feel at ease and proud of your work. If we never take a moment to slow down and look at the work we have done, there is no amount of productivity that will satisfy it!
Take Breaks
It may seem counterintuitive, but taking breaks can actually increase your productivity. Our brains are not designed to work for long stretches of time without a break. Taking short breaks throughout the day can help you recharge and refocus. Consider taking a 10-minute break every hour or so.
I am a huge fan of going for walks. Check out my blog post 5 Benefits Of Walking Daily for why I think you should lace up daily.
Stay Hydrated
Dehydration can lead to fatigue and decreased concentration. Staying hydrated throughout the day is essential for productivity. Keep a water bottle at your desk and make sure to refill it throughout the day. If you're not a fan of plain water, consider adding some fresh fruit or herbs for flavor.
Bonus to this one, you are going to the bathroom more often, meaning mini breaks from the screen!
Get Enough Sleep
Sleep is essential for our overall health and well-being. Not getting enough sleep can lead to fatigue, decreased concentration, and poor decision-making skills.
I know, I know, broken record hearing about the importance of sleep. If this one is a bit trickier because after a long day, watching Tik Tok videos for a while to decompress is what you like to do, start small, just try going to bed 10 minutes earlier.
Practice Gratitude
Gratitude is a powerful tool for increasing happiness and reducing stress. Practicing gratitude can help you stay positive and focused on the present moment. Consider starting a gratitude journal where you write down three things you're thankful for each day. You can also take a few moments each morning to reflect on what you're grateful for.
I listened to a mediation years ago with the famous Louise Hay where you noted how grateful you were for indoor plumbing because Kings and Queens of not too long ago didn’t even have that. It’s small and silly but has always stuck with me.
Move Your Body
Regular exercise is essential for our physical and mental health. Exercise can boost our energy levels, improve our mood, and increase our productivity. If you have a sedentary job, make sure to take regular breaks to stretch or go for a short walk. Consider incorporating exercise into your daily routine, such as taking a yoga class or going for a run before or after work.
If this is new to you, again start small. Walk, try a new class of something interesting, Youtube a yoga class or whatever else seems interesting!
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