5 Strategies Improve Productivity That Really Work

If you struggle with staying focused and productive at work, it’s likely that tasks and deadlines have been slipping through the cracks and you are starting to feel overwhelmed. Now is the time to make a change! There are small tweaks to your workday that can vastly improve your productivity. Here are 5 of this NYC Professional Office Organizer’s strategies to improve productivity at work that you can implement right away.

Use the Word NO

It’s so hard to do but saying “NO” is a valuable time management skill to master! If you are asked to do a task or participate in a meeting or panel, and it’s NOT contributing to your goals, then NO may have to be your response. Don’t stretch yourself thin and then start missing deadlines for the work that is moving you towards your goals.

Create a Daily Plan

The best way to manage all that needs to be done during your workday is to have all the information in only one place. You can use whatever method of organizing that you prefer – a paper planner, a digital calendar, a notebook, or an app on your phone or tablet. Figure out which method works best for you and stick with it. Include all meetings, appointments, and tasks that need to be completed each day. Review your plan for the following day the night before so that you can quickly get your day started.

Take Care of Yourself

This is often overlooked. After focusing all day long to complete high priority tasks by their deadline, we often find ourselves working late into the night catching up on tasks that had to be put aside….and then we start over again the next day. By making sure you get enough sleep each night, make time to eat three meals a day and allow time for the things that truly make you happy, you will be well rested and more productive during your workday. As your personal well-being should be a top priority, time should be blocked for it on each week’s calendar.

Determine When You Work Best

You know yourself best! When you are planning your workday, think about when you have the most energy. Are you most productive and creative first thing in the morning? Or do you need a second (or third) cup of coffee and some time to check in before you start working? During your most productive times of the day, work on your high priority tasks and those that are the most challenging. During the times of the day where your energy is lower, tackle the non-urgent tasks like catching up on phone calls or clearing your desk.

Being Early Needs to Become the Norm

When you have an appointment, plan on arriving 15 minutes early. With this extra time, you won’t be rushed and can do one last quick review of your objectives while doing an extra lap around the block. When you rush, important details are lost or forgotten, and you’ll end up wasting time later trying to piece it all together. With a little extra buffer time, you’ll be able to be more efficient and productive, saving time in the long run.

For more office organizing strategies and support to improve productivity, reach out to your NYC Professional Office Organizer today.