You know the days at work that drag on and feel like they are endless. These days are really hard to get enough work in (or proper work in) because you do not have the motivation to keep working. This is challenging in general, but especially when you have a lot on your plate, or have a due date coming up. You know that you need to work as much as possible, but it’s just impossible. I know the feeling - I experience it all too often, but it is possible to break through that ‘can’t’ attitude and pump out the work. Over the years, I have figured out a few ways to help break through and get work done. Here are my favorite five ways to improve your workflow:
Fuel Your Body
Each morning, I make sure to fuel my body properly, in order to feel the best. If you are low on energy, try a green tea, or another healthy form of caffeine. It is much better for you compared to a coffee filled with cream and sugar. If you absolutely need your coffee, try adding substitutes such as non-dairy coffee creamer, or a ‘better for you’ form of sugar. According to Health.com, The next time you rush out the door in the morning without something to eat, consider this: Skipping breakfast can set you up for overeating later in the day. A healthy a.m. meal, on the other hand, can give you energy, satisfy your appetite, and set the stage for smart decisions all day long. "You want to aim for a breakfast that combines good carbs and fiber with some protein," says Erica Giovinazzo, MS, RD, a nutritionist at Clay Health Club and Spa, in New York City. Luckily, your options are plenty.” Some of the best options are oatmeal, greek yogurt, bananas, eggs, and almond butter.
Create A Distraction-free Environment
Distractions really do make or break a work day. I have never understood the companies that allow their employees to bring their dogs or kids along with them, each day. I definitely get why it is a bonus, but how does anyone get work done? Personally, I need peace and quiet in order to fully concentrate. Creating a distraction-free environment is easier than you think, but you will need a few things to get it set up. If you work from home and occasionally have disruptions (such as screaming kids, or barking dogs), I would highly recommend getting some ear plugs. This will help block out all of the sounds that are not wanted. If you have to have some sounds, consider getting some noise-reduction headphones. This way, you can listen to music while working and avoiding other sounds. Make sure that your office, or work space is not in an area where you can easily turn on the television. This way, it will not tempt you.
Improve Your Comfort
There are many ways to improve your comfort. For starters, you can get an essential oil diffuser, or candles, if you prefer. I believe that using essential oils can help with concentration, so I usually opt for the oils. Make sure to have a glass of water and a few snacks with you, so that you do not have to get up and stop working every single time you need a sip of water. Finally, make sure you have your thermostat set on a comfortable temperature. I know that in the summer months (especially in Southern states), it can be very hard to regulate the temperature inside your home, but there are a few ways to increase the comfort of your home while saving money.
A perfect example of this would be window films. Window Films, or Window Tinting can help residential and commercial properties with excessive heat, excessive cold, fading, high energy costs, glare, security and safety, redirection of light, and it can even add a decorative effect to your space. According to UHS Window Tinting and Blinds, “The Department of Energy considers window film a top-tier technology for energy conservation with one of the fastest paybacks — approximately three years. Upgrading your windows with 3M™ Window Film can help you achieve significant savings. You could save $1 to $2 per square foot of film installed, or as much as 19 kWh per square foot of glass. Building owners around the world are already taking advantage of these savings — isn’t it time you did too?” UHS Window Tinting and Blinds has been serving the greater Atlanta area since 2003. Providing much-needed window tinting, security film, decorative film, and select blind treatment services, as well as installation, they take pride in each job they do, no matter how big or small, and have amazing reviews and positive accolades to show for it. If you are feeling hot in your home this summer, I definitely recommend checking out UHS Window Tinting and Blinds to see what they can do to help!
Take A Break
To be productive, you need to make sure your mind and body are in the right places and sometimes, that requires a break. If you are beginning to lose steam, take a short walk, have a snack break, or do a quick workout. I bet you will feel better once you settle back down to work again!
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