Productivity hacks can transform the way we work and what we can achieve.
Moreover, if you do not make use of the productivity tips that we are going to show you in this article, you will be at a severe disadvantage when compared to those that do.
Let’s take a look at 42 easy productivity hacks that will make you a superhuman.
Not only can productivity hacks allow us to increase our productivity, achieve more, give us a higher amount of time to spend on tasks we love, and become more efficient, but they can also reduce stress and anxiety by helping us get more stuff done.
When you are efficient, you know that you can handle anything that is thrown at you.
Whether it be tight deadlines, demanding tasks, unfinished tasks or a high workload, productivity hacks can help you with whatever you need to do.
When used correctly, productivity hacks will allow you to accomplish more in your life while also giving you more free time to do the things you love.
Mindset Productivity Hacks
1. Dedicate Power Working Hours and Be Present
This is the most used productivity hack in this list.
Dedicating specific lots of time as power working hours allows us to get much more done than if we would have just chipped at it all day, and it also has the added benefit of giving us more free time.
Trust us; start allocating specific power working hours and you will quickly see results. It’s perhaps the best way to increase your productivity levels and get a few extra hours each day.
2. Meditate
Meditation comes with a ton of benefits, boosting productivity being one of them.
By just taking twenty minutes out of your day, you can boost your productivity, reduce stress and anxiety, and become a happier person overall.
3. Change Your Environment from Time to Time
Even the most attractive environments can get old from time to time.
By switching things up and going to a different room, we can trick our brains into giving us some more work juice.
4. Switch off After Work
Despite what you may think, switching off after work can actually improve productivity exponentially.
If we are constantly thinking about work, we never give ourselves enough time to fully replenish our energy and attention.
5. Take Regular Breaks
Another productivity hack that you may find to be somewhat surprising is taking regular breaks.
Taking regular breaks allows us to get more done in the long run when compared to just working continuously and getting burnt out.
Get more done by doing less.
Physical Productivity Hacks
6. Exercise First Thing in the Morning
Exercising in the morning has been shown to give us more energy throughout the day.
Whether it be going for a quick jog or hitting the gym early in the morning, exercising first thing can boost our productivity to a noticeable degree.
7. Get a Short Movement Break in
If we sit at a desk for too long, we start to feel drained.
By simply getting up and having a quick walk around, you will be able to come back to your work with more energy and willpower.
8. Use a Standing Desk
Recent studies have shown that something as simple as using a standing desk can help improve productivity.
For such a simple change, this is something that everybody who cares about their productivity should be doing.
Organization Productivity Hacks
9. Use the Eisenhower Matrix
The Eisenhower Matrix gained fame for being featured in almost every “productivity hacks 2022” article, and there is a good reason why it exploded in popularity.
By separating our tasks into 4 groups, urgent, not urgent, delegate, and don’t do it, we can focus out time on what really matters and stop wasting time on things that have little impact
10. Clean up Your Physical Workspace
Your physical workspace is a representation of your mental state.
Chances are, if you have a messy workspace, you will feel lethargic, stressed, and lazy.
By simply cleaning up your workspace, you would be surprised at how much more productive you will be after the fact.
11. Declutter and Organize Your Digital Workspace
Your digital workspace is just as important as your physical workspace.
If your PC is an absolute mess with irrelevant files and apps scattered all over the place, doing a quick clean up can make it easy for you to focus on the stuff that matters.
12. Clean up Your Tabs
Similarly to your digital workspace, if you have numerous tabs open that have nothing to do with your current tasks, then it would be in your best interest to have a clean-up.
13. Create a Dedicated Workspace
If you do not have a dedicated workspace (e.g. somewhere you go to work and nothing else), then you are hindering your productivity drastically.
Having a dedicated workspace can trick our brains into associating a certain location with work, meaning you will be more focused and less easily distracted.
14. Tame Your Email Inbox
It is not uncommon for people to let their Email inbox reach into the thousands.
Having a ton of emails displayed in your inbox can make it harder for you to find what you need, wasting precious energy and resources.
Workflow and Process Productivity Hacks
15. Plan the Following Workday Before Bedtime
A simple yet effective productivity hack is to plan your workday the night before. Before you go to bed, take a few minutes to reflect on the tasks you need to accomplish the next day. Jot down a to-do list or create a schedule outlining your priorities.
By doing this, you’ll wake up with a clear plan in mind and be ready to hit the ground running. Plus, it helps to declutter your mind before sleep, ensuring a more restful night and a smoother start to your day.
16. Use the Eat the Frog Method
The “Eat the Frog” method, coined by productivity guru Brian Tracy, suggests tackling your most challenging or important task first thing in the morning. This way, you’re starting your day with a sense of accomplishment and progress.
By completing the most daunting task early on, you’ll gain momentum and energy to tackle the rest of your to-do list with a positive mindset.
17. Consolidate Your Work Apps
Having multiple apps and tools for different tasks can be overwhelming and counterproductive. Consider consolidating your work apps by using a project management software or an all-in-one productivity suite.
This way, you can streamline your workflow, reduce distractions, and have everything you need in one place. It saves time and mental energy spent switching between various tools and increases your overall productivity.
18. Break Down Tasks into Subtasks
Large, complex tasks can be daunting and demotivating. To make them more manageable and less overwhelming, break them down into smaller, bite-sized subtasks. This technique allows you to focus on one step at a time and gives you a sense of progress as you complete each subtask.
By dividing tasks into smaller chunks, you’ll feel more motivated and productive, knowing that you’re steadily moving forward.
Time Management Productivity Hacks
19. Use the Pomodoro Technique
The Pomodoro Technique is a popular time management method that involves working in focused bursts with regular breaks. Set a timer for 25 minutes (known as a “Pomodoro”) and work on a single task with complete concentration.
After each Pomodoro, take a short 5-minute break. Every fourth Pomodoro, take a longer break of around 15-30 minutes. This technique helps maintain focus, prevents burnout, and optimizes productivity.
20. Clean up Your tabs
One of the best windows 10 productivity hacks is to clean up your tabs. Having a cluttered browser with numerous open tabs can be distracting and overwhelming. Keep your digital workspace organized by closing unnecessary tabs and bookmarking those you may need later.
This simple act of decluttering your browser can help reduce distractions, improve focus, and make it easier to find relevant information when you need it.
21. Start Time Blocking
Time blocking involves allocating specific time slots for different tasks or activities on your calendar. By assigning dedicated blocks of time for focused work, meetings, breaks, and personal activities, you create a structured schedule that helps you prioritize and manage your time effectively.
Time blocking encourages discipline, minimizes procrastination, and ensures you allocate enough time for important tasks.
22. Block out ‘Focus Time’ on Your Calendar
In addition to time blocking, set aside specific periods for uninterrupted focus time. During these periods, eliminate distractions, silence notifications, and create a conducive environment for deep work. Use this time to concentrate on tasks that require intense concentration and creative thinking.
By protecting this dedicated focus time, you’ll accomplish more in less time and experience a significant boost in productivity.
General Productivity hacks
23. Get a Goal Tracking App
To stay on track with your long-term goals, consider using a goal tracking app. These apps allow you to set goals, track progress, and provide reminders, keeping you accountable and motivated.
Whether it’s personal or professional goals, having a visual representation of your progress can help you stay focused and productive.
24. Utilize Task Templates
Creating task templates for recurring activities or projects can save you time and effort. Identify tasks that you frequently perform and develop templates or checklists that outline the necessary steps.
This way, you won’t have to reinvent the wheel each time and can quickly get started on your work without missing any crucial steps.
25. Automate Routine Work
Automation tools can be a game-changer when it comes to boosting productivity. Identify repetitive tasks that can be automated, such as email responses, data entry, or social media scheduling.
By automating these tasks, you free up valuable time and mental energy that can be redirected toward more important and strategic activities.
26. Label Your Tasks According to Importance
Prioritizing tasks is essential for effective productivity. Assign labels or tags to your tasks indicating their level of importance or urgency.
This visual cue helps you identify and tackle high-priority tasks first, ensuring that you’re focusing on what matters most and preventing valuable time from being consumed by less critical activities.
27. Stop Multitasking
Contrary to popular belief, multitasking is not an efficient way to work. Instead, embrace monotasking—focusing on one task at a time. Give your full attention to the task at hand before moving on to the next one.
This allows you to work more efficiently, maintain a higher level of concentration, and produce better quality results.
28. Set a Single Goal for Each Day
Setting a single goal for each day helps you maintain clarity and focus. Identify the one main objective or accomplishment you want to achieve by the end of the day.
This goal serves as your guiding light, keeping you motivated and on track. By narrowing your focus, you eliminate distractions and increase your chances of successfully completing your priority task.
29. Work in Short Bursts
One of the best productivity hacks for remote workers is to work in short bursts. Working for long stretches without breaks can lead to diminishing focus and productivity. Instead, adopt a work rhythm that involves shorter bursts of intense focus followed by brief breaks.
For example, work for 50 minutes and take a 10-minute break. Use the break to relax, stretch, or engage in a non-work-related activity. This cycle of focused work and rejuvenating breaks keeps your energy levels high and maintains productivity throughout the day.
30. Block Distracting Apps/Websites
Digital distractions can significantly hinder productivity. Install browser extensions or apps that allow you to block or limit access to distracting websites or apps during designated work periods.
By eliminating or reducing the temptation of social media, news sites, or other non-essential platforms, you create a more focused and conducive work environment.
31. Choose the Right Project/Task Management Tools
Finding the right project or task management tool that suits your needs and preferences is crucial for productivity.
Explore different options such as Trello, Asana, or Todoist to find a tool that aligns with your workflow and helps you stay organized, track progress, and collaborate effectively.
32. Create Shared Goals Within Teams
Collaboration is vital for productivity in team settings. Ensure that everyone is aligned and working towards a shared goal. Clearly communicate objectives, milestones, and expectations to foster a sense of unity and purpose.
When team members understand how their individual efforts contribute to the bigger picture, productivity and motivation thrive.
33. Choose the Right Collaboration Tools
Effective communication and collaboration are essential for team productivity. Explore collaboration tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, or Google Workspace to streamline communication, file sharing, and project collaboration.
Having a centralized platform that integrates different communication channels and collaborative features enhances efficiency and reduces unnecessary back-and-forth.
34. Know When to Work Alone
35. Know When to Say “No”
Learning to say “no” when your plate is already full is a crucial skill for maintaining productivity. While it’s tempting to take on additional tasks or responsibilities, overcommitting yourself leads to burnout and decreased efficiency.
Assess your existing workload and priorities before accepting new requests. It’s okay to decline or negotiate deadlines to maintain a healthy work-life balance and preserve your productivity.
36. Prevent Interruptions
Interruptions disrupt workflow and hinder productivity. Minimize interruptions by communicating your availability and boundaries to colleagues or team members. Use status indicators or setting specific “focus time” blocks on your calendar to signal when you need uninterrupted concentration.
This helps others respect your dedicated work periods and reduces unnecessary disruptions.
37. Track Tasks but Let People Crack on
While tracking tasks and progress is essential, avoid micromanaging others. Provide clear expectations, set deadlines, and establish accountability. Trust your team members or colleagues to manage their tasks and allow them the autonomy to work efficiently.
Empowering individuals to take ownership of their work fosters productivity and cultivates a positive work culture.
38. Use a Scheduling App for Meetings
Scheduling meetings can be time-consuming and disruptive. Simplify the process by using scheduling apps like Calendly, Doodle, or Google Calendar’s scheduling feature.
These tools allow participants to view your availability and book meetings directly, eliminating back-and-forth email exchanges and saving valuable time.
39. Make Meetings Productive
Meetings can either be a productivity killer or an opportunity for meaningful collaboration. To ensure productive meetings, establish clear agendas, set time limits, and invite only necessary participants.
Encourage active participation, avoid tangents, and summarize key takeaways at the end. By optimizing the structure and purpose of meetings, you maximize productivity and minimize time wastage.
40. Schedule Notifications
Meetings can either be a productivity killer or an opportunity for meaningful collaboration. To ensure productive meetings, establish clear agendas, set time limits, and invite only necessary participants.
41. Don’t Get Bogged Down in too Much Tech
While technology can enhance productivity, excessive reliance on tools and apps can lead to information overload and decreased efficiency. Avoid getting overwhelmed by continuously seeking out new productivity tools or apps.
Instead, focus on mastering a select few that genuinely align with your needs and provide the most value. Remember, productivity ultimately comes down to effective habits and mindset rather than relying solely on technology.
Changing Habits is the Key to Productivity
To truly unlock your productivity potential, focus on developing effective habits. Consistently practice these productivity hacks until they become second nature.
Small, incremental changes in your daily routines and mindset can lead to significant improvements in your productivity over time.
Make This Year More Productive
By implementing these productivity hacks, you’ll gain more control over your time, accomplish tasks efficiently, and achieve your goals with greater ease. Experiment with different strategies and find what works best for you.
Remember, productivity is a journey, and with consistent effort and a proactive mindset, you can make this year your most productive yet.
Productivity Hacks – FAQs
What Are The Best Productivity Hacks For Work?
The best productivity hacks for work are taking regular breaks, minimising all distractions, and allocating time to the most important tasks. Even just a few small improvements can make a substantial difference, and there is always something you can do to improve your productivity.
What is The Most Used Productivity Hack?
The most used productivity hack is to have dedicated working hours, whereby an individual plans specific blocks of time when they are going to work intensely.
Are there any Productivity Tips For Remote Workers?
Yes, there are some productivity tips for remote workers.
Remote workers should minimise distractions, have dedicated working hours, get enough sleep, and take frequent breaks.
What Are The Most Effective Productivity Tips?
The most effective productivity tips are getting enough sleep, having dedicated working hours, taking frequent breaks, and doing tasks in order of importance.
If you follow these work hacks, you will notice a monumental difference in your overall productivity.
Not only will these productivity hacks for work allow you to do much more work in less time, but they will also allow you to achieve more than you would have done without them.
If you would like more productivity tips for work or just more productivity hacks in general, feel free to take a look at our other content on MovingForwards.
