10 Tips To Make Yourself More Productive

January is a pretty dreary month and sometimes, it's hard to get back into the swing of things.

If your productivity at work has taken a bit of a nosedive, what can you do to get it back to where it needs to be?

Well, we've got ten top tips that are sure to get you firing on all cylinders again.

Listen To Your Body

It's a good idea to work with your body, rather than against it. Do you often suffer from a mid-afternoon slump?

Then try to tackle the most difficult tasks in the morning. If you're hungry by midday, don't try to work though that either – listen to your body and what it needs.

Figure Out What's Important

Prioritise your tasks. Yes, it seems obvious, but it's all too easy to put those really urgent things off for as long as possible. If there's something that needs doing, just get it done first. You'll be in a good mood for the rest of the day!

Establish A Pattern

Getting into a routine is one of the easiest ways to be more productive. By establishing a set timetable for your day, you'll find yourself finishing things before your scheduled breaks, and not having to stay later than everyone else.

Keeping An Eye On The Clock

Get into the office a little earlier. That way, you can make yourself a cup of tea and prepare yourself for the day ahead before you start your shift. You'll find yourself working a lot more efficiently from the word go if you're not rushing in at the last minute.

Work In Comfort

A comfortable office chair will help your productivity too. Things like backache can distract you from your tasks - especially if you're tall or big-built. By working comfortably, you'll find that you become much more efficient. Carry out an ergonomics assessment of your working environment to ensure that you are able to be as productive as possible – don’t let your environment restrict you.

Make A List

Keep lists to help yourself remember what you have done and still have to do. It's easy to forget about something like sending an email – so make a note of it! That way, you'll be able to keep on top of your workload. Consider using an online task tool, such as Insightly, which will remind you of all tasks.

Be Well Rested

Take plenty of breaks to keep yourself fresh. Working in front of a computer screen all day can take its toll, so make sure you get up every hour or so, even if it's just for a few minutes. Get yourself a drink and some fresh air as often as you can too. Also, try to get eight hours sleep every night - sleep plays an important role in both mental and physical wellbeing.

Take Some Exercise

People who take exercise have improved levels on concentration and feel more motivated to work. According to Jennifer Cohen, exercise also lifts mood, which can help people stay happy in the workplace. Studies have also shown that exercise can increase memory and productivity.

Don't Put It Off

Don't procrastinate – set yourself goals. Wouldn't it be great to reply to all of your emails by the time you have a break and treat yourself to a coffee? So do it. By thinking about an end goal, you're much more likely to complete something.

Focus on one thing at a time. There's nothing worse than trying to do three things at once; after all, you simply won't do them well. Give each task the attention it deserves. Don't worry about wasting time – by focusing fully, you'll get things done quicker.

Brighten Up Boring Tasks

Make everyday jobs fun. This could be by listening to music, or having your weekly team meeting somewhere different such as the park. By getting rid of the boredom, a task suddenly doesn't seem like so much of a chore.

A Productive Year Is Ahead

So there you have it – ten ways to boost your productivity! Whether you decide to give all of them a go or just one, there's no question that your performance will thank you for it. So what are you waiting for? It's time to kick-start 2016 and meet your workplace goals.

Jasmine Porter is the founder and editor of Wellness Steps. She has worked as a legal secretary in The City, is mother to two children and now runs fitness classes in her home town.