For most of us, there are certain times of the day when we are more productive, but it’s tricky to sustain that productivity. Many people start their day with optimal energy, but their efforts wane as the day progresses. Others are most productive in the afternoon.

Productivity tends to come in spurts, but here are five tricks to help you maintain top efficiency throughout the day.

  1. Set a morning routine – Establish a morning routine to boost your output and stick to that routine until it becomes a habit. Start by waking up at the same time every day. Designate all the activities that you will complete during the morning hours and make sure to do them every day. Pretty soon, you will notice your morning routine is already established, and it will be hard to deviate from it.
  2. Track your day – Things only happen when you make them happen. Start each day by laying out your to-do list, including checking your email, going through paperwork and making phone calls. You can use a computer, phone, or hand-written list to keep track and cross things off as you go.
  3. Know yourself – Accept tasks and projects that fall within your skillset, experience, and expertise. Focusing on things within your field of interest will squeeze your creative juices and provide fulfillment. Doing things that don’t interest you or don’t match your abilities can often cause you to stagnate, and if it’s beyond your capabilities you may wind up discouraged and frustrated.
  4. Take mental breaks – Everybody needs time to refresh, but taking time off doesn’t mean that you need to be idle. You can take a break from your normal work and also be involved in productive activities, such as reading, listening to your favorite music, or doing volunteer work for worthy causes.
  5. End with a routine – The end of the day must also follow a routine, such as bonding with your family. Wrap up your emails, finish your phone calls, and clean up your desk. Then leave work at work and focus on relationships, personal time, and getting adequate rest for the next day.

Productivity is like a muscle. As you establish healthy habits and routines, you’re setting yourself up to be more and more efficient on the job and more content in other areas of your life.

 

Damon Burton is an entrepreneur, consultant and President of SEO National and UtahSites who writes extensively about leadership and career advancement.