As we enter the home stretch for 2021, it certainly feels like we’ve gone from zero to one hundred in record time in recent weeks. After another tough year of enduring numerous lockdowns, pivoting and adapting to a new way of living, it can sometimes lead to feelings of being emotionally exhausted or burnt out. In recent weeks, I’ve spoken to several clients who are encouraging staff to take additional leave or extending their closure periods to ensure staff take a well earnt rest……this year more than ever!
If you’re feeling this way, consider these tips for productivity (that will allow you to countdown to some well-deserved R&R over the holiday period and finish the work year on a high):
- Identify your priorities – with pre-Christmas deadlines looming for many, take time out to reassess where you are in terms of meeting these objectives. If you’re not on track, what can you do to ensure you don’t run yourself into the ground to get the job done? Consider whether tasks can be reallocated within your team; can your manager or mentor assist you to review your workload, or do you need to call on additional resources to assist?
- The natural order – it’s important to identify when you do your best work for specific tasks. For example, you may find that naturally, you’re at your peak energy levels first thing in the morning. Make sure you match your own energy levels with your most important tasks when you are fresh and ready to focus.
- Avoid distractions – if you have an important piece of work you need to complete, try and minimise distractions that can lead to procrastinating. An example of this is shutting down your email for a period of time (or removing notifications), or diverting your phone that will steer you away from focusing.
- Taking regular breaks – this gives your mind a chance to recover from intense focus, but remember to be smart with how you use your downtime. Perhaps a walk around the block, or a quick coffee break will allow you to recharge better, rather than switching off and falling down the social media rabbit hole.
- Don’t over commit – there is always a rush-on in the silly season. Personal commitments ramp up, catch ups are organised, and it all seems to be scheduled before Christmas. Make sure you learn to say ‘no’ to what you can and can’t commit to, ensuring your energy levels can be maintained, and you can be present and engaged in all aspects of your life.
Here’s more information on some of these productivity hacks and a few more that you might find valuable too:
As the saying goes, it takes 21 days to form a habit, so now is the perfect time to consider developing some new habits that you can carry into 2022 and beyond ?.
Disclaimer: The material contained in this publication is of a general nature only. It is not, nor is intended to be, legal advice. If you wish to act based on the content of this publication, we recommend that you seek professional advice.
