UXL Blog

We’ve all been there. There’s a deadline looming ahead of us, or a work project that we really need to start…but we log into social media instead and start scrolling. Or we check the news. Or we get distracted by daily life (the laundry needs to be done, the kids have school and sports, the dog needs a vet appointment), which can derail us even more.

With so many things vying for our attention—both entertainment and little tasks—how can we boost our focus and get the things done at the TOP of our to-do lists? How can we practice better time management and boost overall productivity?

Here are five ways…

Opt for Airplane Mode

If social media or online browsing is your weakness, try to do whatever work you can in airplane mode (yes, your laptop has this function too). This will give you a measure of control over mindless scrolling and help you to solely focus on the task at hand.

Set a Timer

An excellent productivity method is to use timers to do “work sprints.” Set the timer for a short amount of time (say, half an hour or even twenty minutes) and focus on ONE task until the timer beeps. Do not multitask or stray from what you’re doing. These short bursts of concentrated work can help you stay focused and productive.

Prioritize Tasks

Make a to-do list and prioritize the tasks based on their importance and deadline. Start with the most critical tasks first and work your way down the list. By focusing on the most important tasks, you can ensure your time is spent efficiently and effectively.

Eliminate Distractions

Identify potential distractions in your environment and take steps to eliminate or minimize them. This could involve turning off notifications on your phone, closing unnecessary tabs on your computer, or finding a quiet workspace where you can concentrate without interruptions. If you’re working at home, it’s a good idea to go into a room and close the door to separate yourself from the rest of the house (and all the housework that’s waiting for you!). This sends the signal to yourself (and anyone else at home) that it’s work time, and you’re about to dig in.

Take Breaks

While it may seem counterintuitive, taking regular breaks can actually improve your productivity. Research has shown that short breaks during work can help recharge your brain and prevent burnout. So, get up and stretch, practice a little yoga, take a walk, or enjoy a cup of tea—whatever will help you relax and detach for a few minutes. Then, once you’re feeling refreshed, you can tackle your work with renewed energy.

Bonus Tip: Use the Pomodoro Technique

This technique is another effective method for managing time and boosting productivity. This technique involves breaking your work into intervals called “pomodoros,” typically 25 minutes long, with short breaks in between. After completing a set number of pomodoros, you can take a longer break. This method helps you maintain focus and prevents burnout by providing regular breaks.

By implementing these strategies and making them a part of your daily routine, you can improve your time management skills and increase your overall productivity. Remember, it may take some trial and error to find the methods that work best for you, so don’t be afraid to experiment and adjust as needed. Good luck on your productivity journey!

MARGARET SMITH IS A CAREER COACH, AUTHOR, INSIGHTS® DISCOVERY (AND DEEPER DISCOVERY) LICENSED PRACTITIONER, AND FOUNDER OF UXL. SHE HOSTS WORKSHOPS FOR PEOPLE WHO NEED CAREER OR PERSONAL GUIDANCE. 
CHECK OUT MARGARET’S ONLINE LEADERSHIP COURSE. 

Tags: beat procrastination, boost productivity, Margaret Smith life coach, productivity at work, time management and productivity, time management improvement