In my professional life, I currently work in Information Technology, ensuring that our ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system works in an efficient and effective way for our system users. With this in mind, as your company grows, so can the complexity of your process flows, which impacts the systems used to conduct business. This calls for projects galore in my life. Projects come in many shapes, sizes, and forms. Whether I am integrating our system with customers and vendors, or making a small new report to give the user better insight on performance; you should always have a defined approach in completing the task(s).
I must admit, when I first started working in my profession, I was very bad at allowing work to spill over into my time at home. (Probably because I was so used to the idea of “homework” from school) Of course, there are times when I can’t really avoid this, but lately I have not really encountered this problem. I became a bit more intentional in my commitment to my projects, but also intentional in “living my best life”. So I have changed my approach to working on my projects, and I have benefited greatly from the changes.
Below, I am providing some helpful tips on how I increase productivity at work, without taking the project home with me.
1. Taking Breaks
When working through long, thought wrenching tasks, it is super beneficial to give your mind a break. This will help to keep you rested and allow you to return to the project refreshed. Taking short walks will even possibly spark new ideas in your mind, that can help you conquer road blocks that may have you stuck.
2. Check Your Work Atmosphere (Remove Your Distractions…Even Your Colleagues)
Cultivating a productive atmosphere in your work place, is essential in your strides towards success. A Productive atmosphere encompasses the tangible and intangible. For many of us, we can’t choose the layout of the office space, nor the area that we sit. But fortunately, we can add a little personality and flare with a touch of decor. I would also encourage you to post positive affirmations around, that will keep you motivated throughout the day. Also, work to cultivate harmony within your department and project team. Negative energy can definitely impede on the success of a project.
3. Narrow Your Focus
Establish a well defined scope, which will help you to narrow your focus and control the expectations.
4. Track Your Tasks
Create a system of organizing and prioritizing tasks, that will help you to maintain boundaries and focus on results. Pencil and paper is a timeless strategy, but I suggest also using a digital tool to help you to stay on task.