It is hardly a surprise that many of us are facing a productivity slump right now. You should not put yourself down for having the problem but there are ways to push through. Here are two easy ideas to help.
#1 – Create a Plan for Your Day
Once you have woken up for the day, whether you got up straight away or hit snooze seven times, create a list of everything you want to do for the day. This list should include work, chores, and relaxation time.
When writing down the more broad tasks (i.e. clean the kitchen, complete project, etc.), break them up into smaller tasks. As you complete the smaller parts of each task, you will feel more accomplished and motivated.
An example list:
Complete class project
- Complete class project
- –Research
- –Answer essay questions
- Do shift at work
- Clean kitchen
- –Wipe down counters
- –Do the dishes
- –Clean the stove
- Watch episode of “Umbrella Academy” on Netflix
- Video chat with Aaron
TIP: You do not have to complete tasks in the order in which they appear. Complete them as you wish to.
#2 – Avoid the Phone Distraction
For most of us, our homes are not designed to be “work friendly” as we usually have a work or school environment to go to on a daily basis. At home you are likely surrounded by objects and technology that we associate with free time and can become distracting.
One of those technologies is likely your phone: a handy tool or the easiest and worst distraction ever.
Leaving your phone in another room while you’re working will help you in avoiding the urge to use it to check Instagram, text friends, or play a phone game. If you must keep it near you for whatever reason (work, emergencies, etc.), simply turn on the Do Not Disturb setting and keep your phone face down. Better yet, keep the phone behind you somewhere or place an object on top, like a book or a few pieces of paper. This will stop it from making distracting noises and stop you from wanting to pick it up so quickly.
Remember, even if you can’t handle these two suggestions, or if you can only do one, that’s perfectly fine!
