4 Ways To Feel Like a Productive Professional
Some days, it seems impossible to feel like you’ve accomplished anything, whether juggling deadlines, managing family responsibilities, or just trying to get through your massive to-do list. If that sounds familiar, don’t worry—we’ve all been there.
However, you can implement a few simple strategies to help you feel like a productive professional. Take these four actionable steps to maximize your productivity and make even your busiest days feel like wins.
1. Establish a Routine That Works With Your Energy Levels
Not everyone functions at their peak from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Some of us are morning people, while others hit their stride in the afternoon or evening. Therefore, you should tailor your routine to match your natural energy levels to feel productive.
Tackle your most demanding tasks in the morning if you feel most focused during that time. Conversely, save your energy-intensive projects for later in the day if you’re more of a night owl.
Sometimes, the day may involve similar needs for maximum productivity. Meal prepping breakfast offers advantages, such as saving time in the morning.
Your evening after work may look similar as you need a healthy pick-me-up, such as hitting the gym to ensure you don’t fall asleep as soon as you get home. Remember when you feel most energetic for a week, and adjust your schedule to harness that momentum.
2. Use Time-Blocking To Schedule Tasks
Time-blocking is a game-changer when it comes to keeping your day on track. Instead of letting your to-do list overwhelm you, break your tasks into specific time slots and block off chunks of time in your calendar.
Be specific about what you’ll do during each block, whether writing reports, responding to emails, or preparing for an important meeting. Remember to be realistic about how much you may accomplish. Include buffers between tasks to account for unexpected delays or catch your breath.
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3. Minimize Distractions by Creating a Dedicated Workspace
It’s time to carve out a dedicated workspace if you’ve been working from your couch or dining table. A clutter-free, well-lit, and organized work area does wonders for your focus.
And while some may have an entire spare room to turn into an office, even a small corner with a desk is enough to signal your brain that it’s time to work. Try to keep your phone out of reach or set it to “Do Not Disturb.” These small changes can help you stay locked in when you need to finish tasks.
4. Take Regular Breaks To Refresh and Refocus
It might sound counterintuitive, but taking breaks boosts your productivity. The Pomodoro Technique is a popular way to stay engaged without burning out. The technique alternates between 25 minutes of focused work and 5-minute breaks. Regular breaks allow your mind to reset and help you return to tasks with a clear head.
Feeling like a productive professional doesn’t require you to reinvent the wheel. These methods will put you one step closer to achieving more while remaining efficient from the beginning to the end of the day. Experiment with your processes and find the approach that makes you feel like a graceful and productive professional.
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Meet The Writer!
Hi! My name is Nadia Ibrahim-Taney and I help people design happy and fulfilling careers through authentic career coaching. My expertise includes career exploration guidance, resume writing, interview prep and LinkedIn profile optimization. My pronouns are She/ Her/ Hers and as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I focus on how diverse identities impact and influence folks holistically and professionally. Please connect with me on LinkedIn or at Nadia@beyonddiscoverycoaching.com
