Did you know the average Briton spends around 11 hours a week procrastinating? Or to put it more startlingly, 24 days a year!
In fact, the writing of this article was delayed by putting on the kettle, fussing with needy dogs, and binge-watching Netflix.
Anyway, no more digressing – the point is, it is easy to lose focus and consequently waste time putting off tasks, and this is also true in the workplace.
But there are ways to improve your productivity at work.
Dedicate a space
Whether you work in an office or you’re based at home you need a space that will limit distractions and help you to stay focused on what it is you’re meant to be doing.
Things like plants will bring freshness to your working area, but also consider finding a home for your gadgets such as phones and tablets so you aren’t tempted to scroll when you’re supposed to be working.
Fitted office furniture can add functionality to your space, and try to keep your space as clean and organised as possible as a lack of clutter on the desk will also result in a lack of clutter in your mind.
Reduce multitasking
The idea of completing several things at once may seem enticing and give us the idea that our workload will reduce quicker.
But the reality is that multitasking will only reduce the quality of your work and wind up taking longer to complete individual tasks.
To avoid multitasking try turning off your e-mail notifications, switching off your phone or hiding it somewhere out of reach, make a to-do list and work through it one by one, and focus on the tasks that will take longer to complete.
Set boundaries
According to the World Health Organisation, around one in seven people contend with stress in the workplace.
One way to help clear the mind and keep you focused on the here and now is by creating clear, set boundaries that deter you from putting off tasks and avoid the need to come back later, perhaps even when the working day is done.
Set boundaries in terms of the time it will take to complete a task, and also with the remit of the job you are contracted to do.
Set goals
Start your day right by creating small and measurable goals that can help keep you motivated throughout the working day as once you’ve ticked one off you’ll want to move on to the next.
It is advisable to focus on small and actionable goals, for instance, read a certain amount of e-mails by a set time, and find motivations that will keep you on track.
Make sure that the goals are achievable, time-focused, and measured, and more importantly celebrate any goals you achieve in the day.
