We all set out to be productive each day but there are so many things to distract us. Between email, text messages, and family obligations, it can be quite surprising how much gets accomplished. How do people stay productive and actually get things done? Here are 6 ways to help you be more productive.

1. Exercise Daily

Not only is daily exercise good for your physical health, it also boosts your mental health! Studies have shown that those who exercise daily have a longer attention span than people who don’t. What does that mean? It means that daily exercise can help you stay focused and get more done during the day.

2. Remove Distractions

While we can’t remove all distractions, we can remove as many as we can. If your cell phone is constantly distracting you, turn it off while you’re working on a task. Your attention won’t be pulled away every few seconds, which means you’ll focus more on what you’re working on and less on what’s happening inside your device. Email is a good example of a distraction. It’s misleading because people think it only takes a few seconds when, in reality, several minutes have passed.

3. Meditate

Like exercise, meditation has been proven to lengthen attention spans. Don’t worry – you don’t have to practice it for years to reap the benefits. Find a few moments during your busy day to sit quietly and meditate. You’ll not only feel more focused, but you’ll also notice a decrease in your stress level. It’s a win-win!

4. Get Outside

There’s something about being outside that makes us want to stop and pay attention. In fact, “green time” is now a recommended treatment for those with ADHD. If you can’t get outdoors, take a peak out the window. Studies suggest that just viewing grass and trees can increase your focus. Don’t have grass or trees? Not to worry – add some plants to your space and watch your productivity increase.

5. Set Reminders

This isn’t your typical reminder to get things done. These types of reminders are much more fun! Setting break reminders throughout the day can increase your focus. How? These reminders offer a reward, something to look forward to. Think of these as an “if, then” statement. “If” I work on this task for 20 minutes, “then” I get to…. It’s a great way to get done what needs to get done without feeling overwhelmed.

6. Limit negative self-talk about not being “productive enough”

Sometimes the worry people experience about not being “productive enough” actually takes away from the energy that could go toward being productive! Know that you can only do one thing at a time, there will likely always be something left on the to-do list, and that’s OK.

If you’re busy, overwhelmed, and feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day, give these tips a try. You have to find what works best for you but there’s no harm in trying something new. Get out there and be productive!

Take Care,
Dr. Nicole