To be productive we need to focus, to focus we need energy. Therefore, it is important to manage our energy levels throughout the day. Here are some tips on how you can control your energy levels each day to boost your productivity.
Tip 1: Tune into your energy levels
Take note of your energy Peaks and Troughs by asking:
- What affects my energy levels
- When do I focus best?
- What impacts my focus?
Tip 2: Plan to Optimise your Energy
Match your tasks to your: 1) energy levels & 2) your ability to focus. So avoid trying to do high focus challenging work when you know your energy and focus may be low. Instead plan to do low focus tasks at this time.
Plan high focus time blocks for the time of day you know you can focus best and when there will be less distraction.
Tip 3: Reset your Focus during the Day
Anticipate your energy highs and lows throughout the day. Expect a slump after back-to-back meetings or later in the day. Develop reset tools to reenergise and refocus, such as:
- Take a short break
- Go outside to free your mind and gain a fresh perspective
- Reset before the next task or meeting
Technology to help Focus
There are lots of apps out there that can help you stay on track each day. Here are some recommendations to get you started.
- Forest App – set a time to concentrate
- Pomodoro Timer – use for timed work sprints
- Aquarium – reminds you to drink water over a pre-set schedule
- Trello Board – organise and track your work tasks
I hope you find these tips useful.
Productivity Training
You can access many productivity templates and productivity articles on this website including Tips for Hybrid Working, Managing Stress and Managing Your Stakeholders.
At beproductive.ie we help people get the important things done with less stress. Read about our company Productivity & Wellbeing Workshops, Webinars and Seminars.
My signature Productivity Programme is called ‘Turn Busy into Productive’. This self-paced online course helps individuals develop lasting skills in their own time, at their own pace.
To discuss any of these options, contact Productivity Consultant Moira Dunne here.
Written by Productivity Consultant Moira Dunne, founder and director of beproductive.ie
