The modern world is full of limitless distractions, and this affects our day-to-day lives in many ways. This applies to the workplace as well, but it can be rather simple to motivate yourself to work harder. All you really need to do is make it EASIER to be productive, and make it harder to be lazy. Beyond that, use some of these tried and tested productivity hacks to get more done at the office.
First, avoid multitasking. While multitasking is theoretically great, it is not as easy as you may imagine. Research shows that your brain works better if it is just solving one complex task at a time. Try singletasking so you can be at the top of your game, regardless of the task.
Second, hide your phone. If you find yourself checking your messages and apps too often, you’re not alone. Many other people are also addicted to Candy Crush. Furthermore, even looking at your phone can have an affect on your cognitive ability. However, if you shut your phone down and hide it in a drawer, you should find that it’s less of an issue.
Next, be direct and choose the right words in your emails. If there is a timely deadline, begin your emails with that. Direct and to-the-point communication simply produces better results, and avoids confusion in the office.
You may hate this next hack, but the research backs it up, unfortunately. If you’re going to perform at your highest level, you’ll need to turn the music off, or change it to something less distracting. Lyrics can be distracting to both you and anyone within hearing distance, so try switching to an instrumental or some pleasant white noise.
Lastly, plan ahead. If you can get a task done the night before it needs to be completed, then go for it. Try sending emails before bed to ensure everyone is on track when they get to work next morning.
