Is your brain saying “Friday,” while the calendar insists it’s Wednesday? The monotony of the day-in and day-out of your job can cause your productivity to come to a screeching halt long before the workweek is over. These 15-minute productivity boosters will help you get back on track, so that you can clock-out with confidence.
(Photo Credit: SergioDelgado/Flickr)
1. Look at videos of pets doing crazy cute things.
Oh, just admit it. Videos of animals doing funny or cute things can cure the worst case of The Mondays (or even The Wednesdays) and bring a smile to your face. As it turns out, looking at photos of cute animals boosts both productivity and friendliness, too. I mean, seriously, who can resist videos of tiny pygmy goats in pajamas bouncing around like little jumping beans, or dogs cozying up with their tiny baby human friends and napping with them, or baby sloths squeaking for the first time? You guys!!
2. Listen to upbeat music.
Studies show that certain types of music can influence a person’s creativity, productivity, concentration, and critical thinking skills. So, if you’re looking to boost your productivity at work, then listen to classical, electronic, or, believe it or not, video game music. If you’re planning on listening to this music while on a break, then choose something upbeat that gets you amped and wanting to belt out the lyrics at the top of your lungs – a workout mix is a good option.
3. Take your meeting outside.
There’s nothing better than getting out of the office to breathe in some fresh air and get some sunshine on your skin. If you have an afternoon meeting on the agenda, consider taking it outside and around the block for a nice change of pace. If it worked for Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg, chances are it will probably prove beneficial for you, too. Get some exercise and check something off of your to-do list by hosting a walking meeting next time.
4. Learn something new.
Rather than using your break to complain to co-workers about how much work you have, why not use the time to stimulate your brain and learn something new. There are hundreds of apps that allow you to learn new skills at your own pace and from the palm of your hand (smartphone). Use your time wisely and learn how to code, speak a new language, or build something … anything. By using your brain in another capacity (a more challenging capacity), you give yourself a break from the monotony and allow for new neurons to fire and get your productivity juices flowing.
5. Organize your workspace.
This may seem like a dreadful task, but it will help clear up physical space on your desk, as well as mental space in your head so that you can come back to your work(space) feeling a tad bit more organized and prepared than before. This doesn’t mean doing a complete overhaul of your desk on your break, but simply tidying up the “noise” on your desk that may be contributing to your unproductiveness. Here are some tips to help you start chipping away at the piles of files and clear your desk and your mind of unnecessary items.
If you’re curious to see five other ways to boost productivity that are just as bizarre as they are effective, then read this post. You should be equipped with enough tricks to kick yourself into gear in 15 minutes or less and be on your way to productivity heaven. Now, you can end your day on a high note, instead of feeling unaccomplished an anxiety-ridden. Rinse and repeat.
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What other ways do you boost productivity during your breaks? Share your tips with our community on Twitter or in the comments section below.
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