5 Ways to Increase Productivity at Work

Not knowing where the time went at the end of the work day could be a positive sign that you love what you do, or it could indicate that , you find yourself with too much work left at the end of the day. If this happens once in a while, don't sweat it. If you feel this way three or more days of the week, it's time to increase your productivity at work.

5 Ways to Increase Productivity at Work

1. Timing is Everything

Plan to arrive at work 10 to 15 minutes early each day. With the extra time you can refill your coffee, put away your lunch, chat with co-workers for a few minutes and settle in to your work space. Just a little bit of extra time in the morning makes it easier for you to get down to business when the work day starts.

2. Avoid the Time Suckers

We've all experienced them: from the family members who constantly call us at work, to the co-workers who think it's acceptable to spend 20 minutes of work time talking to you about their cat. Politely set boundaries with the offenders. For the person standing in front of you who won't leave, walk away from your desk or pick up the phone and make a phone call.

Other obvious time suckers to avoid while working: IM, gaming and texting. If email is distracting you more than it's helping, turn it off between tasks.

3. Play Games: Challenge Yourself

Work is not always fun or exciting. Keep yourself from becoming too bored by turning your quantity and quality of work into a session of office Olympics. Set yourself daily goals to best your co-workers, and your own best work, which will challenge you. These small mind games will motivate you to focus on the task in front of you. Be sure to perform similar tasks together, use a clock to time yourself and do what you can to improve your skills.

4. Divide and Conquer

Tackle tough jobs first, after breaking each one down into smaller, more digestible pieces. Make phone calls early in the day, delegate tasks as needed, and solicit help or input before lunch for the best responses from co-workers.

5. Prepare for Tomorrow Today

At the end of the day, stop what you're doing 10 or 15 minutes earlier than you're scheduled to leave, if that's possible. Make clear notes on unfinished projects and file away any completed work. Take this time to restock desk or printer supplies and tidy up your work space. The only thing left on your desk at the end of the day should be your list of what you need to accomplish tomorrow. Keep a calendar of weekly and monthly deadlines visible on a wall.