Productivity Hacks for a Better Work Life

Jul 6

Make to-do lists and be specific when writing out tasks.

Decide which tasks are most important and urgent and decide how long each task should take. Place smaller, shorter tasks in between larger, longer tasks to prevent yourself from getting burned out quickly. If you have an assignment due, a nail appointment might not be on your list of to-do’s.

Don’t put more on your plate than you can handle.

Learn to say ‘no’ to others and yourself. Don’t allow others to boss you around and overload you with work. Remind people that you have your own tasks that you must complete before you are able to tend to their needs. If they desperately need your assistance, show them your to-do list that you must complete before the days end and ask them where they believe they can fit in to your schedule. Sometimes people may realize that what they are asking you for is not as important as what you already have to do for yourself.

Combine similar tasks.

Combining similar tasks because you’re in the same frame of mind can help you get more work done. An example of this can be cleaning while cooking. If you clean while you cook, you won’t have to worry about setting more time aside for the task after you finish your meal.

Dedicate specific times that you check your email.

Take at least 2 times per day to declutter and answer emails. It’s very easy to spend long periods of time going through emails. It’s especially easy for you to get distracted if you have one email address dedicated to all of your needs. You should have specific email addresses for specific things. For example, your email address for your favorite store’s mailing list shouldn’t also be your professional email.

Make time for naps.

The argument that everyone has the same 24 hours in a day is one that is constantly made and leads people to believe that they must dedicate all, if not most, of those hours towards their work. This idea is false because your work will not ultimately be of quality if you are lacking sleep.

Set website blockers and time limits for apps on your phone to avoid distracting content.

Staying on task can be difficult and although some are able to simply hold themselves accountable and meet the goals that they set for themselves, others need a bit of assistance.

Use noise to improve your focus.

Some people find soft music or general background noise as a great way to improve focus and maintain concentration. Try creating a specific playlist for specific tasks.

Wake up early.

Waking up early allows you to get a head start on your day. Once you get into the routine of waking up early, your body will begin to do it naturally. Also, the earlier you wake, the less distractions exist because everyone else will still be sleeping.

Determine the best way to start your day.

Other than the necessary nourishment, determine how you’d like to start your day. Decide whether you’d like to start with a large task to get it out of the way or if you’d like to start with a small task to get you in the mood and build your driving power.

Schedule time for self care.

Burnout can sometimes be inevitable when needing to complete several tasks in one day. Taking time to yourself can help perform your best because you cannot take care of anyone else and their needs before you tend to your own.

Keep the end goal in mind.

Make a step-by-step plan where you break down your big goal into smaller, more manageable goals. Constantly remind yourself of what you are actually trying to accomplish and how good it will feel once you complete the task.

Taylor Lauren Williams

Born and raised in Buffalo, NY, which is known as “The City of Good Neighbors”, Taylor has always had a good sense of community. She is passionate about her work. Her love for sharing knowledge is how she found her way into Journalism. She prides herself in making sure that people have accurate information because it aids in obtaining the best outcomes. In May of 2019, Taylor received a Bachelor’s degree from Canisius College in Journalism and Communications and minor studies in Sociology with a concentration in Child, Family, and Community Studies.

Taylor is currently pursuing dual Master’s degrees and licensing in Counseling. She will receive her Master’s degree and licensing in School Counseling in December 2024, followed by a Master’s degree and licensing in Mental Health Counseling in May 2025. These advanced studies reflect her dedication to fostering mental health and well-being in both educational and community settings.

Although she may seem quiet or shy upon first introduction, Taylor has a vibrancy that is undeniable once you're allowed a look within. She is observant and curious, and the passion behind her curiosities is what ensures her drive. As a mediator-type personality, Taylor is often trying to understand other people’s true feelings. She is creative and a risk-taker. She finds her own lane and when that one seems to look a bit over-saturated, she’ll begin setting the foundation down for a new one.

Authenticity is a cornerstone of Taylor’s character. She seeks opportunities for self-expression and remains true to herself in all endeavors. She values the differences among people while appreciating the commonalities they share. Open-minded yet loyal to her own values, Taylor navigates her world with integrity and insight.

Taylor’s efforts are aimed at sharing her situated knowledge and the extended insights of those she welcomes to her platform, providing valuable perspectives on various topics. As a future counselor, her traits of empathy, active listening, patience, and strong ethical values will undoubtedly enrich the lives of those she serves.

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