Long festive lunches, after-work parties, Secret Santas (and secret online shopping). Sounds like the holiday season. Whether you work from home or in an office, there are lots going on this time of year– and often it’s not business.
With all these distractions, how can you stay productive at work? Here are some of my top tips:
1. Make a List
No, not a Christmas list. Write down each task you need to get accomplished at work and prioritize it. Also, plan your goals for the next day before you even leave work. You’ll have a jump-start on your objectives.
2. Book Time Off to Shop
This is no surprise – it’s hard to be productive at work when you’re online shopping. If you’re panicking, book time off for a little retail therapy. Pick a weekday morning at the mall (go just when the stores open) and cover off whatever you can. But bring a list! You don’t want to be wandering the aisles aimlessly. Be productive with your time.
3. Don’t Go Overboard
Get in the holiday spirit, but don’t overindulge. If you have too many events and parties scheduled, politely decline some invitations. Office luncheons, cocktail parties and late nights can leave you tired and affect your productivity.
Stick to (or improve) your regular schedule: get an early start, eat breakfast and remember to exercise. Those Christmas canapes can be full of calories.
4. Remove Distractions
If you have a co-worker playing Christmas music or you’re in a bad habit of checking Facebook, remove the distractions. Wear silencing headphones, close those unnecessary tabs and focus on your work.
5. Reward Yourself
No one wants to work with Scrooge. Once you’ve completed what you absolutely need to do, grab a gingerbread cookie, have a glass of eggnog or update your Facebook status. It’s the holidays after all!
Do you want to learn more about office productivity? Out of Chaos is proud to offer tailored presentations and office organizing workshops in the Greater Vancouver area. Find out more here.
