The concept of productivity in the workplace is connected to your routine, knowing what small actions will help you get the best out of yourself and when to take breaks to help you reset and refocus throughout the day. We’ve put together x5 simple ways you can increase your productivity whether you work a traditional 9-5, have flexible work hours or are working from home. 

Morning Routine

We recently interviewed x3 highly productive women on their morning routines all of whom made note of creating time for self in your morning routine. Your morning routine sets you up for the day so can include both organisation and self, this can include making sure you have a good breakfast, meditating, journaling, watching the news or checking emails & in the office it could include running through your admin tasks, having team meetings or brainstorms or tackling one of your MITs (most important tasks) to get you ahead for the day.  In the AOL head office we start our day by putting on a playlist of positive music, making a Nespresso coffee before ticking off our small admin tasks & clearing emails. 

To-Do List 

Our top way to ensure productivity is to create and utilise a daily to-do list. Jot down every single thing you need to do and prioritise your workload in a methodical way. This allows you to put everything into perspective, immediately reducing your stress levels and giving you a structured way to get through your workload. We love the satisfying feeling of ticking off each task throughout the day too! Define your x 3 MIT’s (Most Important Tasks) and focus on these first, while your brain is feeling fresh.

Time Blocks

Working in time blocks can not only help to ensure you get everything done but also reduce the potential overwhelm of your to-do list by focusing on a specific task/s during each time block. Time blocks are also helpful to make sure you are taking adequate work breaks either to refuel with food, stretch at your desk or go for a walk. A scheduled break can help you reset before coming back to work to focus on getting through your tasks ahead. 

Prioritise & Learn To Delegate 

This tip can be greatly beneficial to your productivity however is often the most challenging to incorporate. We love the notion of working smarter not harder, of working together as a team to utilise each individual's skills to reach your end goal. Delegating can make a world of difference when done correctly, master the art of delegating by doing it in an organised and effective manner. Brief them properly, making sure they have all the important and relevant information. Set a clear deadline and do not micro manage. Another effective way to increase productivity is by prioritising. What needs to be done? And...what do you want to get done? – these two things are very different.

End Of Day Checklist 

Just as you have a morning routine for your productivity you should have an end of day checklist too. This includes tidying up your space whether working from an office or WFH. Finish any outstanding emails, checking your diary & writing your to-do list for the following day. An end of day checklist is important to allow you to walk away from your work day, to ‘switch off’ mentally & transition into your personal life for the rest of the evening for a good work/life balance.