While there are many ways to get you out of the slump of feeling unproductive, the first thing is to try to get to the root of your problem. Are you stressed? Perhaps feeling uninspired? Or like you don’t have much time?
Map out a plan for how you’re going to tackle your “to-do” list. Take a few minutes to map out your day and decide how you’re going to tackle the day. This can be either a quick list or a detailed game plan, using a planner.
You’d be surprised how much you can be influenced by stepping away from your computer for just a moment. You’re a human being, not a robot, and you’re meant to move around a bit.
So, you sit down at your desk, look over the list of things you need to do… and the paralysis seeps in. Where do you even start? The answer is simple: tackle the biggest or most important tasks first.
Not only will this immediately get you into the working zone, but it will also knock off the pressing items from your list so that once you’re done, you’re left with the smaller and easier to manage tasks.
For a lot of people, a disorganized workspace can lead to procrastination. Create a tidy, well-organized space with everything you need in arm’s reach. And set the mood! Light a scented candle that you love or put on your favorite Spotify playlist.
Sitting in the same place for 8+ hours a day isn’t necessarily fostering the productivity you’re seeking. So, switch things up and find a new place to work!
When you get started for the day, take a few minutes to determine what your goal is for the day. Why are you doing these tasks? Is it because you have an approaching deadline? Is it so that you can take some time off later in the week?
There are a whole host of productivity methods out there, but one of the most tried-and-true methods is the Pomodoro Technique.
The Pomodoro Technique consists of working in timed intervals. You start by working on a task for 25 minutes, followed by a five-minute break. Every four times you complete a 25-minute work period, you take a longer break of 15 to 30 minutes.
Taking a break might seem extremely counterproductive. But in reality, if you’re feeling unproductive, it might be because you’re feeling overwhelmed or even burnout. It will help you protect your mental health and recharge. In this case, the best course of action is to just pause and take a moment to yourself. You are allowed to have unproductive time.