jeff adams

We all want to save time, spend time with our families, loved ones and even our football teams. With that in mind, here are seven ways of instantly boosting productivity as you push to get things done. This list covers the basics, but hopefully there are some gems in here that will help you get things done that wee bit quicker.

1. Lists

I love lists. If you have a big job, break it down into tasks and write them down. There’s nothing like a crossed out item to make you feel like you are making progress.

The downside is some folks are fine leaving a few things on there whereas others will have to finish every item, therefore defeating the object of being more productivity.

2. Turn everything off

Seriously, it works like a charm. Don’t get me wrong, I love having music on in the background, especially when I want to get “in the zone” but ironically, turning all that off leaves you in silence and when there is silence there is that need to finish so you can put it back on a again.

A simple tip, and not one for everyone but give it a try and you’ll be surprised.

3. Read the projectbrief again

A useful way of completing set tasks is to read the brief again.

If you have already split your day up into tasks, this is a great way of seeing the bigger picture and reminds you what you are working towards. Sometimes, I read it again AFTER I’ve finished my tasks so I get that elation of achievement (or sorrow depending on how much I get done!)

4. Get a bigger mug

If you are coffee drinker, I’m not sure how healthy this is but for me, a great big mug of tea always helps me sit in one place and get the job done.

Less visits to the kitchen means more time to crack on and get things done.

5. Quick Reply E-Mail

Spend 20 minutes first thing in the morning reading and replying to e-mail and then close it down.

No-one likes doing work, we’d all love to stay at home but doing nothing doesn’t pay (really) so the way I see it, if I can get into a habit of closing the e-mail down, I can get on with things and so finish quicker and that means more time, more money and a bigger smile.

6. Keep Your Mobile

Some companies ban mobiles from the workplace, with the thinking behind it being that it distracts you from your work. They basically want to take you for all they can get from you.

I disagree. I think mobiles are our only real connection to the outside world, our friends and loved ones. They remind us WHY we are doing what we are and ultimately I find, spurs me on to go the extra mile so I can go see them again.

7. Work in Shorts

This is a real random one but hey, you want to hear things you haven’t heard before right? Well this is one productivity tip that will hopefully get you going. Now clearly, this probably only applies to the guys and not so much for the girls, but wearing shorts really does help me get things done and I can only put it down to me being a little chilly, or in the Summer it makes me feel like I am missing something outside.

There is something about shorts that make me feel energetic, and as the last tip on here I figured I would share something unusual with you all.