5 ways to increase productivity and efficiency at work

Do you look back on your day spent in office and wonder how the time passed without you being able to finish any work? Don’t worry, you’re not alone.

With the amount of distraction at hand, many people fret about not being able to work to their optimum level. Here are some ways you can get out and increase your productivity and, thus, impress your boss.

1. Realise

The single most important factor that will determine your efficiency is knowing that you are slacking off. If you believe that having a 30 minute break post your lunch is your right, then something is seriously wrong. The realisation that you’re wasting your and your employer’s time is the biggest motivation you can ask for. Knowing your level of productivity will lead you to perform better simply because you know where and how you’re wasting time. 

2. Prioritise

Prioritising your work will take you far when it comes to improving efficiency. Know what your goal for the day is and follow it diligently till you’re done with it. Make a mental note of all the tasks you need to accomplish in the day before you begin working. This will also help you create a timeframe for completing your tasks. Ensure that nothing disturbs or distracts you when you’re working.

3. Sit right

We underestimate the way our body reacts to our posture. Stare at a computer screen for too long and your pupils will begin to dilate. Sit in the same pose for a while and your legs will begin giving you cramps. Your back will not support you if your chair does not support the lumbar bones. And all of these bodily signs combine to signal to your brain that you need a break. Get your posture right, practice yoga and exercise daily to overcome this problem. Also ensure that your office ergonomics are right.

4. Switch off

To really get in the zone, it is imperative to turn off distractions like email, Facebook and SMS. They can be your companions once you leave office. But while you’re working and need to deliver your presentation, it can be a source of tremendous waste of time. Avoid falling into the trap. While many offices have firewalls installed to keep your surfing habits in check, the rise of smartphones has nullified its effects. The onus is on you to control your impulse to check who has ‘liked’ your pictures from last night’s booze party.

5. Find eustress

As long as there is work, there will be stress (and taxes!). But you have an option to turn your stress into something called eustress or positive stress. Find your most optimum working time, be it mid afternoon or late evening, and ensure you do most of your work at this time. Create a reward system in place for yourself. Promise yourself a day at the spa if you finish the project assigned to you before time. Take breaks at pre-determined hours and for a fixed duration.

All these factors will help to increase your work efficiency, thus, making you more productive than ever. Go on now, do more in less time and dazzle your boss.