I think we can all agree your surroundings play a big part in how you are feeling. If your home is unorganized and cluttered, your mind feels unorganized and cluttered. If you go to a place that is crowded and loud, you can easily feel anxious and overstimulated. The best way to stay productive (especially if you work from home) is to make your workspace a peaceful one. One where you are focused, and in your zone!
It's easier said than done though right? I am guilty of it, working from the kitchen counter while the toast pops up and you are simultaneously yelling at your kid to get their shoes on for 29th time this morning. Or how about the working crisscross applesauce on the bed so you could pat your sick toddler to sleep? Sound familiar? We've all been there. But when I started setting up my workspace to be more mindful of my productivity, the game changed!
Here are some ways I upgraded my workspace to maximize productivity:
1. Have a designated workspace:
A space that is just meant for working and getting my mind ready for work made a huge difference. I am not lucky enough to have a room to dedicate solely to an office, but I did convert a small area in my living space to be work only. It has my desk, all my chargers needed for the work day, and the kids know that place is not for toys, snacks or playing. When I sit down in that chair, my mind switches imediately into work mode.
2. Have an outlet to make your game plan:
I personally use 'Notability" on my Ipad to make my game plan for the day. If you are more of pen to paper" type of person then get your doodle on! I always start by going through my emails and tasks for the day and write out the "top priorities", the "by the end of the days" and the "if you get to it.. greats". It may seem silly or a waste of time to some, but being able to go into your work day with a clear game plan that you can refer back to is sure to keep you on track for a productive day.
Bonus Benefit: It helps you a ton to see your full day in the morning, that way you don't have any surprise emergencies at the end of the day! Yay for saving the day for future you!
3. Eliminate distractions:
Another easier said then done. We are creatures who love to be distracted, we have a device tied to our hands at all times that we are addicted to because of its ability to distract us. What happens when the urge to be distracted, becomes stronger than the power to stay focused? Now you have a real problem. Luckily, there's a fix for that. All of our phones have a FOCUS mode that can help eliminate distractions. There's ones for sleep, personal and of course ones for work. Even better, they are completely customizable. I take work calls on my cellphone, so it is impossible to set it in another room and forget about it. However, with a quick switch of a button I transport into FOCUS mode. Not only will it hide notifications from social media sites, it will also text my friends back and let them know I am in work mode and will get back to them later. Also because my work calls come through on an app, I can allow that app to filter those calls in, as well as calls from my husband and children's school/daycare to come through while also silencing other random calls. This has been the biggest focus hack! Also I apologize in advance to the friends who get my "in work mode" responses, I promise I still care what you have to say....I just want to hear about it after 5pm!
4. Have your vision board insight:
I'll admit I am a bit overkill on the vision board thing, but I truly believe in the power of manifestation and a bit part of that is seeing your goals and vision for your life daily. For that reason, I have a photo vision board as my background on my work laptop and a written vision board up on my wall next to my desk. Seeing my goals daily keeps me motivated and focused on progressing towards said goals. I even try to make a point to update my vision boards as I knock things off of it or as my vision changes and progresses. Its a great tool to refocus and "keep your eye on the prize" .
5. Work next to a window:
This ones simple right? almost too simple. But there is a lot of science behind your bodies need for sunlight and fresh air. For one it helps with your circadian rhythm, ultimately resulting in a better mood and healthier sleep cycle. Also there's not much a cool breeze on a sunny day can't do to help your mood. Especially if you work from home, it can trick your mind to feel less trapped or "stuck to a desk" when you practically feel like you are working outside. Just try it once and tell me it doesn't help your mood for the day and your sleep that night!
6. Essential oils/candles:
Another one that's simple yet effective. There are so many essential oils or scents that you can use to achieve whatever goal you are trying to reach that day.
Need to relax? Diffuse some chamomile
Need to be more alert? Roll on some peppermint
Need more energy? Burn that cedarwood candle
Need to up your mood? Clary sage will turn it around
The list could go on, but you get the idea
Breathing in those essential oils can drastically affect how productive you are! Its easy, and completely customizable.
Bonus ways that contradict the tips I gave to restimulate productivity when the afternoon crash comes well... crashing in:
7. Move your workspace:
Okay, okay I know I said to designate a dedicated work space, but sometimes moving your workspace towards the end of your day can help re-spark that last bit of productivity you need to get you through that last project. Take your laptop out to the back yard where you can finish up those last few tasks with your kids laughter as music in the background. Or move to that cute, quiet coffee shop that has your favorite lavender latte to give you that afternoon caffeine kick while also getting you out of the house! A new surrounding can really give you the kick you need to stay productive and make the most of your last few hours.
8. Multi-task (Kind of):
Didn't she also say "Eliminate Distractions"? Yes, I did. But as long as it doesn't keep you from staying focused, I really enjoy throwing on a self help podcast. I love the idea of absorbing information that helps me grow and learn while simultaneously powering through my work to-do list for the day. If the talking is too distracting, also simply putting on your favorite feel good music can help with the mid-day funk that creeps its way in each day!
What are some things you do to hold yourself accountable and stay productive during your work day?
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