High productivity is a core component of any successful business. That being said, it’s not always easy to keep distractions at bay and maintain constant focus to get the most out of every second of your workday. Not to mention the fact that you only have a set number of hours per day in which you can get things done.
Over the years, I’ve found that certain tips and tricks work better than others when it comes to increasing my personal productivity and getting things done efficiently. Here are the five productivity hacks I turn to most often:
1. Take Regular Breaks
At any point when you start feeling tired or think that you can’t possibly look at your computer screen anymore, don’t be afraid to take a break. My initial instinct is often to just push through, but the reality is that spending even five minutes away from what you’re working on can help you regain focus, which will have a positive effect in the long run. As Entrepreneur summed up in a recent article, “brief interludes from work can actually increase your productivity by getting your blood flowing and allowing you to return to your work with fresh eyes.”
2. Delegate Appropriately
If you have a team working with you, you need to trust them wholeheartedly and delegate tasks accordingly. As an entrepreneur and small business owner, it can sometimes be tempting to try and do everything yourself, but it’s the mix of knowledge and opinions in your company that will lead the business to achieve great things. Besides, trying to multi-task and do everything all at once doesn’t result in anything other than a whole bunch of tasks that may be finished, but not executed to their fullest potential.
3. Stand During Meetings
It’s no secret that meetings behind closed doors can quickly turn into a waste of time. Whenever you need to discuss something within a group (which will inevitably happen from time to time), stay away from the temptation to sit down in a room for hours. Instead, hold a standing meeting. As Inc. explains, “standing meetings can result in increased group arousal, decreased territoriality, and improved group performance.” In other words, you’ll likely discover a strong solution or come to a satisfying conclusion in record time.
4. Clean Up Your Space
Believe it or not, your working environment (especially your personal desk) can have a major impact on how efficiently and effectively you work. By decluttering (do you really need all those Post-It notes from six months ago?!) the area around your computer and cleanly filing your papers, books, etc. so they’re easy to find and always at hand, you can actually increase your productivity significantly. After all, it’s hard to think clearly when you’re surrounded by chaos.
5. Get An Adjustable Desk
Adjustable desks are believed to be “a healthier alternative and can help people feel more alert throughout the day”, reports Fast Company. The reality is that sitting for extended periods of time can result in everything from back pain to tennis elbow. In short, it’s not good for your health and by allowing yourself to go from sitting to standing with ease throughout the day, you’ll be helping your productivity and your well-being.
Do you have any tricks you like to use to boost productivity, either your own or your employees’? Feel free to share them with me by leaving a comment below.
