Ready to Achieve More? These Productivity Tips Will Help
Do you feel like you’re constantly trying your best but still can’t manage to get everything done? Maybe your to-do list keeps growing longer, and no matter how hard you work, there’s no end in sight. I know what that feels like—wanting to be productive but finding yourself stuck in a cycle where time just slips away, and tasks keep piling up. And the worst part? It feels like you need an extra day to get it all done, but there simply aren’t enough hours. Sound familiar?
The truth is, it’s not just you—I’ve been there too. And trust me, when I started exploring what actually helps with productivity, I discovered something surprising. You don’t need to work nonstop to get everything done. In fact, overworking can reduce your productivity and increase your exhaustion. But don’t worry, I’ve got a few simple tricks that really work.
For example, research shows that productivity isn’t about how much time you spend working but how smartly you use that time. Have you heard of the 90-minute work block technique? It’s science-backed—our bodies and minds are most efficient when we work in shorter, focused intervals followed by brief breaks.
And if you look at how much actual work is done during an 8-hour workday, you might be surprised. A Zippia study found that the average worker is actively productive for only 4 hours and 12 minutes out of those eight hours. Shocking, right?
Productivity and Ultradian Rhythms
Have you ever felt your energy levels rise and fall in cycles throughout the day? Sometimes you’re at peak productivity, and then suddenly, fatigue hits like your battery is completely drained. This isn’t a coincidence! It’s all connected to ultradian rhythms. You’ve probably heard of circadian rhythms, which govern our sleep-wake cycles, but ultradian rhythms play an equally important role in our daily lives.
These rhythms operate in cycles of 90–120 minutes, meaning our bodies aren’t designed for continuous work without breaks. Instead, they need regular pauses to maintain peak performance.
Believe it or not, these rhythms regulate energy, focus, heart rate, and even body temperature. So, it’s perfectly natural to feel moments of fatigue when your body is signaling the need for rest.
If you’ve ever noticed feeling especially tired in the afternoon, it’s tied to ultradian rhythms, which guide our energy in waves. Dr. Peretz Lavie conducted fascinating research showing that most people feel particularly drained after 4 p.m., which means it’s completely normal to need short breaks around that time.
In fact, you might feel this need for rest every 90 minutes, as if your mind requires a small “reset.” Here’s the key to boosting your productivity: recognize these rhythms, listen to your body, and take breaks when needed.
You don’t need to be constantly “on” to be successful. Life isn’t a race; it’s a journey where balance is the key. When you learn to honor these natural rhythms and balance work with rest, you’ll achieve more than you ever thought possible.
14 Tips to Increase Productivity
1. Avoid Social Media
You’ve probably experienced that moment when you check one notification on Instagram, and suddenly, an hour has passed, watching videos you didn’t even care about. It’s crucial to realize how much time you actually spend on social media because it’s not just lost time—it’s a serious obstacle to your productivity.
Now imagine using that time for essential tasks! You can set time limits on your phone or use time-tracking apps to control your social media use. Increasing productivity is simple when you make a conscious decision to be more mindful of your online time.
2. Tackle the Hardest Tasks First
Have you ever started your day with easy, quick tasks, only to realize you’ve missed the most productive part of your day when you had the most energy? This creates a cycle where the hardest tasks keep haunting you until the end of the day.
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Research shows that our willpower and energy are at their peak during the first half of the day, so it’s vital to make significant progress early. Start with the most challenging tasks and leave the easier ones for later. Completing difficult tasks first gives you a sense of accomplishment that fuels you for the rest of the day.
“Productivity is being able to do things that you were never able to do before.”
Franz Kafka
3. Focus on One Task at a Time
In today’s world, we’re constantly bombarded with tasks and obligations. It’s tempting to multitask—quickly checking emails, hopping on calls, and doing research simultaneously. But did you know that multitasking often reduces productivity?
When you tackle one task at a time, you gain better control over your workflow, and each completed step provides a sense of achievement. Once you finish one task, it’s easier to move on to the next without the stress of juggling too much at once.
4. Maintain a Clean Workspace
It might sound simple, but your environment significantly impacts how productive you are. If your workspace is cluttered with unnecessary items, it reflects on your mindset.
Your emotions and energy are closely tied to your surroundings. Create a space that supports your focus instead of adding stress. Start by decluttering and organizing your workspace to make it balanced, functional, and pleasant. Even small touches like adding plants, artwork, or a comfortable chair can make a big difference.
5. Take Breaks!
I know it sometimes feels like you’re too busy to take breaks, but those are the moments when you need them the most. Our energy fluctuates throughout the day, influenced by our ultradian rhythm.
Regular breaks aren’t a luxury—they’re a necessity. Working in 90-minute intervals followed by a 5–10-minute break helps you stay productive and reduces fatigue. Think of it as recharging your battery. Without breaks, your energy depletes quickly. Taking short pauses improves focus, reduces exhaustion, and boosts overall efficiency.
6. Let Natural Light Be Your Ally
You may already know that light impacts your mood, but did you know natural light directly affects productivity? A 2018 study by Dr. Alan Hedge found that workers in offices with natural light reported a 51% decrease in eye strain and a 63% reduction in headaches. Amazing, right?
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Such a simple factor, like natural light, can have a profound effect on your health and ability to focus. If possible, optimize your workspace to allow natural light in, or position yourself near a window to harness its benefits for a more productive day.
7. Boost Your Energy Through Your Ears
Who says every moment of your day needs to be completely silent and calm? Everyday noise surrounds us, but that doesn’t mean we have to be constantly stressed or stuck in complete silence. Increase productivity tips often include creating space for positivity—listening to motivational podcasts is an excellent way to achieve this. Whether during your commute, cooking, or taking short breaks, tuning into inspiring content can elevate your motivation and enhance your focus on tasks.
8. Plants Partners for Better Productivity
Did you know that plants are not just pleasing to the eye but also scientifically proven to boost productivity? Yes, you read that right! Research by the American Society of Horticultural Science found that employees working in spaces with plants experienced less stress and were more productive.
The green world around you isn’t just decoration—plants help reduce stress levels, improve air quality, and enhance your concentration. So, what are you waiting for? Bring a plant into your workspace today!
9. Discover Your “Golden Hour”
Have you ever noticed that some times of the day you’re brimming with ideas and energy while other times you feel sluggish? This is tied to your “peak productivity time.” Increase productivity tips are clear: identify your most productive hours. Is it early morning, when the world is still asleep, or late at night, when you’re relaxed and ready to tackle challenges?
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Once you pinpoint your “golden hour,” dedicate it to your most critical tasks. Working when you’re naturally focused and energized will allow you to complete tasks more efficiently and with less effort, helping you optimize your day.
10. Move-Connect Health and Productivity
Movement isn’t just about physical health; it has a direct impact on your productivity too. Increase productivity tips emphasize a simple truth: regular exercise can boost your work efficiency. No need for marathon training—just find an activity that works for you.
Increased physical activity improves blood flow to the brain, enhancing focus and clarity. Even a 10-minute morning workout can fill your day with vitality and productivity.
11. Start Using the Word “No”
We’ve all been in situations where we overloaded ourselves with tasks and commitments that didn’t align with our goals. A crucial lesson for greater productivity is learning to say “no.” Increase productivity tips teach us to be smart about where we invest our time and energy.
By declining tasks or opportunities that don’t serve you, you safeguard your time for the things that matter most. Don’t be afraid to say no to obligations that don’t benefit you. Successful people understand that their time must be focused on activities that bring the greatest value.
12. Establish a Routine
If you take a closer look at successful people like Stephen King or Thomas Edison, you’ll notice one common trait—routine. It seems simple, doesn’t it? But in reality, it’s the key to their productivity. When you have a daily routine, everything begins to flow more smoothly. Think about your day: you wake up, freshen up, and then seamlessly transition into work. By taking a moment to create a structured plan, you’ll notice that your day becomes far more productive.
Planning and sticking to tasks and activities at specific times will help you tackle the day stress-free. Make time for morning rituals, exercise, and calming your mind—it will make you more effective in the long run. A routine isn’t just for world-famous individuals—it’s for anyone who wants to boost their productivity in life!
13. Plan Your Time—Make Every Moment Count!
When was the last time you planned your time before going shopping or visiting the library? It might seem like a routine task, but if planned wisely, it can save you a lot of time! Why waste minutes in crowds when you could spend them on something more meaningful? It’s simple—try shopping or hitting the gym during off-peak hours. Incorporate this into your daily schedule, and you’ll save valuable minutes that can be redirected toward your goals.
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By planning your time, you’ll gradually notice how much more efficient you’ve become. No more racing against the clock or excuses—just smooth, effective time management.
14. Time Management—Create Your Own Time Magnet
How do you manage your time? If you’re still losing minutes on unnecessary tasks, it’s time to make a change. Consider using the Pomodoro Technique—25 minutes of focused work followed by a 5-minute break. Simple yet effective! Once you get into this rhythm, you’ll find yourself more focused and productive, with no more aimless wandering through endless tasks.
Setting priorities is another great way to boost productivity. You deserve more than just getting through the day. By identifying the most important task and tackling it first, you’ll achieve your goals faster and more efficiently. It’s straightforward—apply this increase productivity tips, and you will soar like never before!
