Ever since I made some simple changes in the way that I deal with my work day, I feel like I actually get more accomplished. It’s those small things that we don’t even recognize sometimes that drags down the day. Try these tips and let me know how it changes your day.
Get a Standing Desk
It’s been well documented that sitting for long periods is bad for your health. If you can’t afford a standing desk, take frequent breaks and walk away from your desk. Go outside when the weather is fair enough. Most of all, don’t eat lunch in front of your computer. We’ve all done it from time to time but a regular habit of eating at your desk will only reduce you productivity. Go have lunch with a friend and then take a walk and catch up on each others lives.
Take a Mental Health Day
Every once in a while our batteries need recharging outside of the vacation schedule. Take a day or half a day to do something just for fun. Take this time for yourself, not to run errands, pick up the kids or go to the cleaners. Go see a matinee or go window shopping. Take your dog for a long walk in the park. Both of you will feel better for it. Just do something you enjoy.
Drink Water All Day
It’s better to drink water throughout the day rather than just with meals. Water is meant to keep you hydrated not wash down your food. Spread your hydration over the course of the day. If you wait to drink when you’re thirsty, then you’re already dehydrated!
At meal time, drink a modest amount of water; don’t drown your food. Let your stomach acid do its job without over-diluting it with water. And no, I don’t mean have a soda instead. Soda does not hydrate you like water. If it has caffeine, it’s a diuretic so it will dehydrate you. The sugar in the soda will just cause you to have those cravings that you are trying to hold at bay. Now don’t go there – “but it’s diet soda!” Even diet sodas will cause the cravings. Your body will react to the sugary sweet sensation your brain receives – even though there is no sugar or calories – just like it was sugar. That “feel good” sugar buzz will kick in and then send you into the cravings slump.
Avoid Meetings
That sounds like a good plan no matter what – but truthfully, I find many meetings are simply a waste of time. They could be avoided by a clear, detailed email. Instead, take the time to go for a walk or exercise for the allotted time of the meeting. If you are the person who makes the meetings, consider standing meetings. It will definitely speed up the amount of time to make decisions and get people back to work. And if you do make the meetings, calculate how much it costs you to have all these people in one room for a set period of time. If they are not actively productive, how much money have you lost? Instead, learn the art of crafting specific, detailed emails where everyone can understand the issue, knows their role and action items. This will reduce the amount of questions and if a meeting is still needed, it should take considerably less time.
Take a Power Nap
If you are your own boss, you decide when you start and stop work. Many sole proprietors will work longer hours than if they worked for someone else. At least give yourself some down time to let your brain recharge for 30-60 minutes. Even a 10 minute power nap is better than running on empty!
Try these tips and see if you find yourself more productive over the long haul. Remember, life’s a a journey, not a race.
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