Ditch these habits to increase productivity at work

When you’re at work, it can seem like you don’t have enough hours in the day to complete every task. But with these tips, you might just find those extra few minutes you need.

1. Stop checking your email

Checking your email on a regular basis has been linked to lower performance and lower memory function. It can distract you from tasks and cause mistakes. So try to overcome this bad habit by only checking your emails at certain times of the day (e.g. 10am, 2pm and 4pm). You can then dedicate the rest of your time to more important things.

2. Avoid attending unhelpful meetings

Most of us have been in a meeting and thought to ourselves “why am I here?” One of the biggest offenders is the weekly status meeting. Even though this can be helpful to update everyone with what’s happening, when nothing has changed just cancel the meeting! Substitute the weekly meeting for a weekly email update or an intranet post.

3. Stop working long hours

Some research has shown that working longer than the average eight-hour day can harm productivity levels. Even though clocking up the extra hours might please your boss, it could have a negative effect on your overall performance.

4. Have more than just a coffee for breakfast

Skipping breakfast is a no-no. What’s even worse is replacing it with a coffee. After a night’s sleep your body is hungry and dehydrated. If you just have a coffee for breakfast, your body isn’t getting the liquids and nutrients it needs for the day ahead. As a result your motivation and productivity will suffer! Instead, try eating a healthy, balanced breakfast and see how much better you feel.

5. Aim to get more sleep

Are you getting your full eight hours a night? If you’re not, it could be one of the reasons why your productivity is suffering. Studies have shown that getting less than five hours sleep every night can affect you in the same way as having a 0.10 blood alcohol level does. Is it time to go to bed a bit earlier?

Do you have any tips to increase productivity at work? Let us know on Facebook or Twitter.

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