How to a have a more productive day: 10 tips

I found this long ago in Facebook and I immediately saved it on my desktop. It's been sitting on the little corner of my screen and I thought I should share it with you :)

So here it it is! 10 tip top tips on how to have a more productive day:

Want to have a more productive day? Follow these 10 simple steps:

1. Make a plan for your day.

For this one to work best, create the next day’s play the night before so that every morning you spend time executing, not planning.

2. Break larger tasks down into easy to accomplish bits.

Splitting a project into smaller pieces can help you feel a sense of accomplishment as you check the items off your list, and it can provide you with a way to finish the project without being overwhelmed.

3. Prioritize …ruthlessly.

It’s important to accomplish the most important tasks first: always set your priorities. Figure out what must be done, do that first and rank the rest of your work according to importance. 

4. Block out distractions.

When you have real work to be done block out distractions If appropriate, turn off your phone, or let it going to voicemail. In some cases, you might be able to use the equivalent of “do not disturb” to keep distractions at bay.

5. Set a timer to define uninterrupted work stretches

One way you can focus your energy is to set a timer. This can also help you avoid distractions because you’ve set aside time for a specific purpose. Don’t allow yourself to do anything else while the timer is on. You might be surprised at what you can get done here.

6. Take breaks to recharge and refresh

Taking a break can help you be more productive. A 10 to 15 minute break after a dedicated period of work can help you refresh yourself and recharge. Recharging can help invigorate you and reset your mind to work more efficiently for your next productive period.

7. Don’t make excuses or procrastinate.

Instead of making excuses look for ways around the problems. Find creative solutions and try to maintain a bright outlook. You’ll get more done if you focus on solutions and stop wasting time making excuses.

8. Reward yourself to reinforce success.

One of the best ways to avoid burnout – and resulting drop in productivity – is to reward yourself. Provide a small reward if you meet your productivity goals for the day. Remember, these don’t have to be material: in many cases, verbal reinforcement of success is equally rewarding.

9. Maintain a positive outlook.

Scientific studies provide it time and time again: positive attitude can help you improve your productivity. Look on the bright side and you’ll have more energy / your mind will be clearer, helping you identify solutions more readily, and get more done. 

10. Know how hard you work, and when.

Be aware of when you are most productive. Pay attention. If you are most productive in the morning, that’s when you should hit it hard and do as much as you can. Keep on top of your work habits, and you’ll be more productive.