Becoming More Productive in Your Everyday Life
Story by Serenity Bussey. Photo courtesy of Wharton School Business Journal.
Got a really big test you need to study for? Or a homework assignment you’ve been putting on the back burner? It’s no secret that these tasks can be dreadful, and that you’d much rather spend your free time doing something else. But, waiting until the last minute to complete tasks can create a bigger burden on yourself and add stress to your life. Here are five helpful tips you can use that’ll ensure you increase your productivity in the future.
#5. Make a To-Do List
You can either do this in your ‘Notes’ or ‘Reminders’ app on your phone, or on any other software that allows you to create lists. Or, you can go the old school route, and use a pen and paper to write out your tasks for the day. I like to put my to-do’s on my ‘Reminder’ widget on my phone, which allows me to see my agenda every time I look at it. This has improved my productivity because I like to check off tasks I completed—it makes me feel good.
#4. Less Screen Time
It sounds really hard, I know. But scientists say getting on your phone when you wake up actually makes you less productive during the day. Getting on your phone can also be a sign of procrastination, so just get your work out of the way first, and then you’re free to do whatever you want.
#3. Get Enough Sleep
When you go to sleep at a decent hour, you’ll end up waking up early and then will have more hours in the day to get things done. Going to sleep early is good for your physical and mental state. If you feel good when waking up, chances are you’ll feel more motivated to complete tasks throughout the day as well.
#2. Listen to Music
I always listen to music while I wash the dishes. Since it’s a task I don't really enjoy, I find that having music distracts me from thinking, “I really don't want to do this.” I also know that many people listen to music as they’re studying, so give it a try.
#1. Plan Ahead
You could do simple things, such as picking out your outfit or making your lunch the night before school or work. Planning ahead can actually take a lot off your plate. Maybe you want to set aside a day during the week to clean your room, that's also planning ahead. I think planning ahead makes you less stressed so you will have more time during the day to do things, like your favorite hobbies.
Serenity Bussey is an 8th grade scholar at Friendship Woodridge International School.