Do you ever find yourself completely distracted or so tired that you can’t focus? It’s impossible not to have those days, but we are here to remind you not to let that overcome the effort that you put in! There are a variety of ways to reel in all of your thoughts and stay engaged in each and every task! Check out these six simple ideas:
Height Adjustable Desk
First and foremost, the furniture that you choose to fill your space actually has a large impact on your wellbeing and productivity. If you’re working from a couch, your body will recognize the relaxation associated with your comfort spaces. If your chair is old or simply there for aesthetics, you will likely experience discomfort, backpain, and distractions.
Similarly, the desk becomes a key element to how engaged you stay throughout your day. It should be large enough (within your space limits) that you can remain organized and stay focused on the task at hand. Getting lost within piles of paperwork or fumbling items will be a quick distraction.
Adding height adjustability in a desk is a feature that isn’t only nice but is incredibly beneficial for both you and the company you work for. Meaning, just like the chair, proper ergonomics create healthier work environments, contributing to less aches throughout the day or even long-term. The ability to stand throughout your day also contributes to stimulation and focus. If you find yourself getting antsy and off topic while sitting, or maybe beginning to get a bit too tired, stand up for a bit! The flexibility of a sit-stand height adjustable desk is exactly what is needed to stay engaged in your days.
Dividing Large Goals into Bite-Size Tasks
A large goal is intimidating and can feel overwhelming, especially if there is more than one on your to-do list! When this happens, it’s all too easy to not even know where to begin and not want to start at all. Or, once you do begin, continue to distract yourself without seeing the end in sight.
In order to attack large goals with true engagement, try to scale back and divide your goal into more manageable tasks. This way you are able to reward yourself as you go and feel every small accomplishment. The more positive reinforcement that you receive, even from yourself, the better attitude you will have in continuing and engaging in your work.
Take Intentional Breaks
Focus and engagement doesn’t happen without breaks. It’s highly unrealistic that someone can be in-the-zone for 8 straight hours. Lunch breaks, water breaks, stretch breaks, etc. are vital to your day. If you plan intentional time to relax your mind and body, you also allow yourself the freedom to focus hard during your times on.
Make sure as you take your breaks to set times that you’ll return to work. This way you won’t find yourself getting too caught up in conversation or scrolling your phone halting your productivity.
Connect With Coworkers
Your coworkers are right alongside you to help motivate you as you attack similar goals! By getting to know your coworkers, you not only create a sense of community and enjoyment at work, but you also have others’ successes to root for and will begin to recognize your contributions as well.
Of course, we are all human and coworkers do bring distractions, but having a team and backing others is a healthy part of what makes your business move. So, start your engagement in your tasks by building those friendships with the other employees and aim toward those common goals.
Make Physical To-Do lists
There is nothing more satisfying than recognizing the accomplishments you have made! By making a physical to-do list, you get to check off each task as you complete it, which is a great way to stay focused and engaged.
If you’re not a morning person, try ending each workday by making this list for the next day. That way you won’t have an excuse of a slow-working brain for a long start focusing in, but instead you know exactly what tasks to begin on and finish for it to be a successful day!
Keep Your Dividers Up and Your Phone Down
Many companies have dividers between desks for privacy and personal space. Many offices also implemented dividers for health and safety during COVID outbreaks. While they have many great additional purposes, dividers also can help in times of focus! Use these to block out what is happening around you so that you can engage in the task at hand, giving your best effort toward the work you are doing.
Similarly, make sure you put your phone down. It’s all too easy to watch any emails and texts come through and feel the urge to at least see what they are about. However, true engagement in your work requires minimal distractions altogether.
Overall, some workdays can feel long and fruitless; however, it is important not to forget the big picture. You took the job for a reason; you care about the company and what they do for a reason. Follow the steps above to change your outlook and stay engaged in every task you begin!