Photo by Jordan Opel on Unsplash
As we continue to navigate a world that is nothing but normal, you may have seen a dip in productivity. What we are experiencing is a form of trauma. Parts of our brain have shut down in order for us to survive. You may feel numb and not able to process your emotions.
Often we think of productivity as creating better to do lists and scheduling out our time. Although those are great tools to implement, these productivity tips are different, but very necessary. As we are working from home or crises schooling kids or whatever your new norm is in your home, here are 4 tips to help with productivity during this time.
1. Be Mindful
Seems simple, but odds are you aren’t taking the time to stop and be. You are rushing from one thing to the next. Lost in your own thoughts even. Being mindful is taking the time to be present in your current circumstances. It is paying attention to what is around you. It is taking the time to focus on your breathing. Be mindful of the things you are putting into your body. Too many carbs can make you tired.
Start your day being mindful and find times throughout your day to pause and to be mindful of your current situation.
2. Exercise
There are so many benefits to exercise besides losing weight. If your job is typically sedentary, then find ways to move for 10-15 minutes a day. The point is to get your heart pumping. It will help keep you thinking. There are so many proteins and chemicals released in our body as we exercise that helps improve brain function. Exercise also helps to relieve stress.
Get your body moving to help you be more productive.
3. Limit How Much News You Watch
There is so much noise around us. Information is at our finger tips. And updates are being given constantly from news outlets, the President here in the United States or your highest government official, our state governors and local representatives, and all of the noise on social media. Everyone has an opinion or conspiracy theory to share. Having information at our fingertips is not always helpful. It creates unnecessary stress. Limit the news you take in to a certain amount of time in the morning and the evening.
For example, I spend 15 minutes in the morning and evening catching up on any news that is new and I need to be aware of.
4. Set Up a Work Space
I often take my laptop throughout my house to get work done. Sometimes I sit at our island counter, sometimes I sit at a chair in our room, sometimes I sit at the dining room table. However, I have found I am never more productive than in the space dedicated for working. Of course I still get stuff done, but I am more focused when I am in my office. This is due to mindset. When I walk into the office I know that I am to work and need to be productive. You may be working from home for the first time.
To help you be more productive, set up an area in your house that is your dedicated work space.
These four tips can help you increase your productivity. What are some other tips that you have learned and implemented that have helped you increase your productivity?
Stephanie
If you are a leader or emerging leader who wants to lead with meaning and purpose, then let’s connect. Join me at the Emerging Leaders Network, a community designed for leaders to collaborate on best practices and discuss issues to become great leaders.
P.S.- Continue the conversation on Facebook! I would love to hear how I can help you on your journey. To receive up to date content, sign up to receive my free 13 Simple Actions To Increase Engagement by Becoming a Better Leader and See Your Revenue Grow guide on the home page and posts will be delivered right to your inbox. If Facebook isn’t your favorite social media site, you can connect with me on Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Stephanie German is a leadership coach, adjunct professor, and dedicated work-from-home mom. She holds a master’s degree in organizational leadership and loves giving back to her community in a variety of ways. When she’s not coaching clients or writing about leadership, Stephanie is usually headed to the mountains or the beach with her family, drinking savory wine, or working on the latest project with her husband. Stephanie’s greatest desires are to nurture the next generation of leaders while raising her own children to be strong, independent, and brave. She lives in Fresno, California with her husband Blake and her three spunky daughters, Cara, Kinsey, and Peyton. She is the best-selling author of So Your Boss Can’t Lead?