How To Increase Productivity

If you’re anything like me, productivity is something that comes in waves. Dealing with a chronic illness, I have to respect my body. Sometimes that means being less productive than I’d like to be. Due to this, I’m always looking for ways to maximize my productivity when the mood strikes. Here are five ways that I maximize productivity.

• Working When I’m motivated

This came with a huge learning curve for me. I came from a mindset of constantly trying to be as productive as possible. When I was unable or uninspired to be productive I’d get critical of myself. It was a terrible cycle that ultimately led to less productivity overall. I’ve learned over time that productivity is something that comes in waves. If I try to force productivity then I have less creative juices flowing overall. I let myself be productive when the mood strikes. Ultimately it helps me to be more successful overall.

• Working in a Designated Workspace

I find having a workspace extremely helpful. I like to designate spots in my house for certain activities. Sure, it’s fun to work from the couch on a day where I feel excessively lazy. The reality is that when I work from the couch, I don’t get a whole lot done. That doesn’t mean I stop myself from working on the couch. It does mean that if I have a task in mind, I intentionally work at my desk because my mind associates that space with work.

• Taking Breaks

Taking breaks really helps me with productivity. Much like working when motivated, breaks are necessary for the brain to reset. It also helps keep the creativity flowing. It’s difficult to get out of a hyper productivity mindset. I find that working on a 20/5 ratio works best for me. 20 minutes working and a 5 minute break helps me keep focus on work and not feel overwhelmed by the amount of it.

• Background Music

It took me a long time to figure out that I work best with background music. It took me so long to figure out because I used to always have pop music or musical theatre on in the background. I found that distracting. I’d want to sing along or I’d end up typing the words of the song rather than the appropriate content. I need classical or non lyrical music. The more relaxing it is, the more productive I am. There are so many videos on YouTube that are specific for work music and they are incredibly helpful. If you’re like me, you should check them out.

• Sticking With a Pattern

Patterns are very helpful for me. If I’m in a routine, I’m likely to get everything I’d like done. When I fall out of a routine for one reason or another, it seems as though life is thrown into chaos immediately. Some of that is my personality and some of that is just the reality of having a chronic illness. I am always dealing with a certain amount of chaos. When I can, I always try to stick with my pattern. That in itself aids my productivity overall but also with specific projects.

These are ways that I stay productive. I know that they likely won’t work for everyone but hopefully this list will get you thinking in one way or another. Let me know how you stay productive!

I hope that you’re having a wonderful day. I hope your day is filled with joy, positivity, and laughter. I hope you find peace, love, and happiness.