How to Increase Productivity

Here are my seven tips to increase your productivity, resilience and wellness throughout the day:

Sleep
Having enough sleep is essential so you can keep a clear head and remain focused for the day ahead. Research shows that you are more likely to make unhealthy food choices if you are under slept too. The average adult needs between 7 and 8 hours solid sleep to function optimally the following day.
 
Start the day right
Having mentioned the importance of sleep, how you start your day is key too. Ideally get up as early as you can. How about getting up 15 minutes earlier than normal and see just how productive those extra minutes are. Try to include time for some early morning stretches, meditation, or even a few deep breaths to centre you for the challenges of the day ahead.
 
Eat well and stay hydrated
Drinking enough water is essential to keep your brain functioning at its optimal levels. Keep a water bottle with you all day so you can rehydrate constantly. Amounts of water required vary from person to person, but generally 8 glasses per day for an adult and more if you have been exercising hard.
 
Pause
Throughout the day allow yourself moments of calm. Take a few deep breaths as often as you remember. They are great to help you refocus on the job at hand. If your job requires a lot of screen time, make sure you give your eyes a rest and look away from the screen for a few minutes at regular intervals. Wherever possible stop for meals rather than wolfing something down at your keyboard. Taking these breaks will increase, rather than lessen your productivity.
 
Stay positive
Keep your mindset positive and focused on what you can achieve, rather than what is out of your control. Having a clear and updated to do list will help you stay on course (see last week’s post!).
 
Exercise
Keep yourself moving whenever possible. Any form of exercise will help you increase focus and concentration. If you can’t go for a run or get to the gym, how about getting off the bus or tube one stop earlier than you need, take the stairs rather than the lift, walk over to talk to your colleague rather than sending an email. All these small changes will lead to higher levels of activity throughout the day.
 
Reward
Remember to reward yourself for milestones reached and tasks achieved. Do this regularly to remind yourself of the benefits of completing your tasks even if it seems unsurmountable, or, at the very least unappealing.