No one changes overnight, but it is possible to implement small modifications that can lead to bigger transformations. And your work environment is a great place to start. The environment we design and the habits we create impact our productivity and ultimately, our happiness. So if you are looking for 2020 resolutions that are (actually) achievable and will foster positivity, growth and productivity, consider these:
Calendar management might not seem like a priority, but it’s one of the best ways to make your days more productive and organized. If you’re in sales, like me, consider blocking off time in your calendar to prospect or make cold calls. It’s easy to get distracted with other tasks and having a designated time for outreach can keep you focused. One of my favorite features in Outlook is assigning color categories for specific tasks – it can help you quickly differentiate various tasks and events. Another calendar tip? Review your upcoming day and prioritize your to-do list the night before; you’ll feel confident and ready when you get to work.
The physical condition of your workspace can impact your productivity. A few months ago, I came into the office on a Saturday morning to reorganize my desk. I decluttered my cube, threw away unnecessary documents, and even brought in a few plants to give life to my workspace. My set up is minimalistic. Now, I rarely find myself searching for misplaced items and I have a few inspiring quotes tacked to my cube walls. If you have weekly or monthly goals, list them in a highly visible area. I bought myself a small chalkboard that sits on my desk to keep track of my goals but a post-it note on your computer monitor can also do the trick!
Taking care of yourself outside of work will positively affect your performance in the office. Fulfilling personal needs and goals will make you feel more confident about yourself, and that can lead to productivity. This can include making time for the gym, attending events and spending time with your family. Many companies have formal Wellness Programs that encourage employees to participate in both individual and group challenges that focus on mental and physical health. But, even if your organization does not have its own program, you can always start your own group to encourage healthy behaviors both inside and outside the office.
Every office has distractions. From social media to smartphone notifications to chatty co-workers – there are endless ways we can be pulled way from being our most productive selves. Find out what’s distracting you the most and look for solutions to reduce these disruptions. If social media or smartphone usage is interrupting your work flow, turn off notifications that don’t require immediate attention. If you get easily trapped in endless conversation with your colleagues, consider talking with them about how it affects your day. It is important to be honest and set boundaries so you can be your most productive self.
Happy employees = a happy work environment (which also results in a more productive work environment). Promoting positivity at work can be as simple as celebrating a small win of a fellow teammate or sending a thank you email to someone who helped you with a project. Work can be overwhelming and stressful sometimes, but it’s important to stop and show gratitude for those around you. Even a random act of kindness such as writing a birthday card for a co-worker or buying coffee for your cube mate can go a long way. Practicing positivity can be contagious so don’t be afraid to hand out positive reinforcement to those around you.
Getting in shape, losing weight, saving money – these are all lofty New Year’s resolutions, but can be hard to stick to and obtain. But making some minor shifts at work can truly jumpstart your production in 2020.
Photo credit: Canva
