With the “Work from home” as the new normal, most of us struggle with the work life balance. Where to put your head at throughout the day when you have endless meetings, your stomach is burning, that cranky toddler or pet going all over the place and you have no clue on how to turn off the malfunctioning fire alarm. Wish there could be just one answer to all these.
Well one thing that might help is – Planning. Planning your day, in fact the whole week well ahead of time makes a lot of difference. Here is a link on the importance of planning that can help you better manage your life.
Also, we have listed down our top 5 picks to help you get started with your productivity journey.
1. Use a Calendar
Yes, let’s go old school of having a calendar at your desk or hanging it on the wall in front of your eyes. Study says that planning your Calendar every Friday for the upcoming week reduces the anxiety level by half. We often use calendar only to keep track of our work and meetings. But how about using it even for your personal stuff? Don’t just update it for the 9-5 slot that you work, update it for the whole day. In other words, plan your whole day that includes your personal goals, starting from kids, doctor’s appointments to working out and making meals.
If you are a visual person, keeping a hard paper calendar at the desk which is always in-front of you, keeps you on the track.
2. Learn the art of delegation
When you are trying to be in control of everything, it might work sometimes but in long run it ultimately affects your sanity. Whether it’s work related tasks or household chores, learn to delegate them. Dividing responsibilities among your family or team members not only unburden you, it also gives a sense of responsibility to everyone and nurtures a positive environment.
Here is a great article on the art of delegation. You can also order this book to learn more.
3. Workout
Working out not only changes your body, it changes your mind, your attitude and your mood. You don’t need whole 1hr everyday for this. At least a 10 mins walk or run, yoga, stretching or whatever makes you feel active will do.
Remember, something is better than nothing at all. So think of some time that works best for you everyday and put it on your calendar. It doesn’t have to be the same time everyday. Keep it on your google calendar as well so that you get a reminder everyday.
Pro tip – Suryanamaskar is the best and easiest stretch you can do if nothing. At least a 15-20 reps work wonders.
4. Eat & Chill
Food affects mood, hence your productivity. A happy and full tummy boosts the brain function. So plan it every morning before you sit at your desk. Learn some quick and healthy recipes based on your lifestyle that you can make at once. Don’t over stress yourself on cooking separate dishes for your little ones if you have any. Most importantly divide the chores. Get them in the habit of eating same food that everyone in the family eats.
Have a good breakfast. Smoothies work best for the busy days. They are not only healthy and delicious, but also keep you full for a long time.
Don’t forget to take breaks for your mini snacks and lunch. You can also keep some munchies at your desk for a quick bite.
During all the activities through out the day, keep your drink handy and do listen to some ChillHop music. Both of these things help you to stay focused. Share some work playlists with your colleagues, that would help you to get a sense of belonging.
5. The 80/20 Rule
Don’t go too hard on your planning. Keep some buffer for the day to adjust any last minute surprises. We love the 80/20 rule in all aspects of life. You don’t need to be full 100% all the time. Plan 80% of your day and for rest 20%, just go with the flow. Use it to chat with a friend, watch something funny, watch Netflix or just do nothing.
The main purpose of the whole ‘Planning’ is to make your life easier. It not only affects you, it also affects people around you. So plan something that accommodates your needs.
Pro tip – Here is a sample desk calendar to use. It would be beneficial to plan every Friday for the upcoming week and update your calendar accordingly. Also try to keep your weekends free – This is your time to relax and reflect. Spend this time to do whatever makes you happy.
