Being productive
In the past few months, I have been trying to challenge myself to be more productive. Some days, it works, but other days still need work, and I think that’s normal. This week, I would like to discuss different ways that I have tried to be more productive with my time and my efforts.
Everyone is busy – especially right now. Students are in-between midterms and finals, some are even wrapping up their final year of university, and that can definitely be stressful. At times, it seems difficult to make the most of your time and actually be productive.
I want to share some of the ways that I have worked to stay productive, even when I am overcome by stressful situations and what feels like limited time.
Create a plan for each week
On Sundays, I usually mentally think of everything I need to have done for the week, but it isn’t until Monday that I plan out my time. Monday mornings, before beginning anything, I make a list. This list consists of what needs to be done, as well as the when the tasks need to be done – prioritizing your tasks is extremely beneficial when it comes to being productive at school, at work, and even at home.
…be sure to leave some time to take care of yourself…
Deciding what needs to be tackled first is an extremely important part of constructing this list. This is how you begin to prioritize your life – things that are time-sensitive need to be completed first, so you can move on to the other things that you need to accomplish. Plan your time accordingly, and be sure to leave some time to take care of yourself as well. You are, after all a priority in your life. I have begun to plan time to do my work, and time to do activities that I like doing – going for a walk, for instance. Balancing my to-do list with my want-to-do list enables me to stay productive during the times I need to be so I can enjoy my time that I have set aside for myself.
Early to bed, early to rise
Getting up earlier is something I also find to be extremely beneficial. Sure, it may mean I go to bed before the 11 o’clock news each night, but this allows me to wake up feeling refreshed. I find that I am most productive when I have a whole day ahead of me. I wake up, make a healthy breakfast, and have time to get myself ready for the day that lies ahead. Getting up early allows me to fully utilize my mornings, take a break for lunch, and stay focused throughout the afternoon.
Make healthy meals
Every day, I make every meal I consume. Staying properly fed and hydrated allows me to have a clear head and it also focus on the tasks I want to accomplish each day. Making meals yourself also helps to save money, as we all know eating out can clean out our bank accounts quicker than anything – without us even realizing it.
Get active
Staying active allows you to have more energy and is a great way to release stress – it’s really a win-win situation for everyone. With the warmer weather approaching, take advantage of this time by walking somewhere you may normally ride the bus or drive. Enjoy the fresh air while doing something great for yourself!
Treat yourself
Being sure to treat myself once in a while allows me to feel comfortable with the choices I make on the regular. It helps to keep focused on what needs to be accomplished. When you do accomplish a specific task, you’ll feel good treating yourself to something special. For me, I treat myself by giving myself some personal time to partake in an activity that I enjoy, such as a relaxing evening in in comfy clothes, with a good movie and a glass of wine in hand. Other times, it’s a trip to the spa to get a manicure or pedicure. Find something you really enjoy and treat yourself for a job well done!