5 workplace productivity hacks

Use these 5 tips to improve your productivity at work

Productivity is a measure of performance and relates to how well you use your time to get things done – although it only counts if you do things correctly. Productivity requires you to be present, but simply showing up doesn't always mean you are being productive. This phenomenon, ‘presenteeism’, refers to the lost productivity that occurs when you are physically, but not mentally, present. For example, sitting at your desk certainly counts as being at work, but if you’re not working efficiently and consistently, you are not being productive. When it comes to recognition, reward and opportunity - productivity matters! 

Try these five tips to improve your workplace productivity:

1. Take your lunch break

Taking a lunch break boosts productivity by allowing your brain some time to rest and reset. You’ll get back to your desk with renewed energy and accomplish twice as much as you would if you just gobbled a sandwich at your desk. Taking a walk around the block, eating a nutritious meal, or practising mindfulness during your break can also do wonders for your physical and mental health. 

2. Focus on one task at a time

Multitasking may seem like a great way to increase work outputs, but research has shown that this is far from the case. One study showed that multitasking requires more time to complete set tasks along with reduced creativity. To make matters worse, performance is also compromised.

3. Limit distractions

Take note of what distracts you in your work environment. If you regularly check social media, mute the notifications or move your phone out of sight. If you share an office with others, try using noise-cancelling headphones.

4. Create a to-do list and note the level of priority

Planning ahead of time will minimise the time wasted on wondering what it is you need to attend to on a certain day. You can also download an app on your mobile phone or desktop for noting ideas, creating to-do lists, scheduling your calendar, or setting reminders.

5. Exercise

Regular exercise is one of the most effective ways to improve your productivity. One study showed that 15 minutes of exercise can improve concentration, memory, learning, mental stamina, and creativity, and lower stress levels, while another study reported that workers who exercised regularly had superior time management, social connections, level of satisfaction, and productivity compared with workers who did not exercise.

Encouraging workplace productivity is important as it leads to superior quality and quantity of work outputs. It is also a pivotal way to maintain motivation and drive an optimistic work environment – which will create an uplifting and positive mood for all team members to thrive in.