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Create a to-do list -

To ensure you're staying focused at work, create a to-do list. Our calendars often get packed, and everything we need to do can become overwhelming. Creating a to-do list means you're more likely to accomplish a greater amount.

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Prioritize tasks -

It's important to prioritize your various tasks and focus on the most time-sensitive ones first. While a to-do list is a great start, at times and without prioritization, it can appear daunting. Take a few minutes and specify what needs to take place and when.

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Set specific goals -

Setting SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and measurable) goals is essential in staying focused at work. To know where you're going, you need to first map it out. Ensure you have both a high-level understanding of the initiatives as well as a more day-to-day itinerary of what needs to be completed.

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Use a timer -

Using a timer will help you mentally prepare for a task. By knowing you have a limited time in which to complete something, you will be more focused. Otherwise, you might slack off or feel as if time is limitless, when in fact it's a finite resource.

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Take regular breaks -

Taking regular breaks is actually shown to help your productivity. These short breaks can help fight mental fatigue and recharge your mind. Try to do something like take a walk or do a little stretching.

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Eliminate distractions -

Distractions can be the worst enemies of productivity. Before you even start working for the day, eliminate any and all distractions you can. Put your phone away or even set it to do not disturb. Or turn it off completely.

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Organize your workspace -

Organizing your workspace means it's free from distraction. A clean space helps you focus on the tasks at hand. Keep trash, clutter, and otherwise off your desk.

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Use noise-canceling headphones -

Wearing noise-canceling headphones at work will help you stay focused. These headphones will block out colleagues' chatter and other noises that stand to distract you and pull you away from what you're trying to accomplish.

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Stay hydrated -

Staying hydrated in general and especially at work will help boost your health and keep your mind sharp. Water helps fuel our bodies, so drinking enough of it is important. If our minds are clear, then we're better able to focus on what's in front of us.

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Healthy snacks -

Nourishing your body with heart-healthy snacks will help keep you focused at work. Instead of thinking about how hungry you are, your mind can zero in on what tasks are left to be completed.

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Exercise regularly -

Regular exercise keeps our bodies healthy and alert, which is just what we need to focus better in our careers. Light exercise like yoga, Pilates, or walking can help in big ways with productivity.

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Get enough sleep -

Aim to get at least eight solid hours of sleep each night to help with your next day's productivity. If you are exhausted or drained, then focusing on your to-do list may feel next to impossible. A restful night's sleep will lead to improved productivity.

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Practice mindfulness -

Mindfulness can help you focus on the tasks in front of you. Take a moment and recenter yourself. A mindful person is often more likely to be able to complete tasks more effectively and efficiently.

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Batch similar tasks -

If there are tasks that use the same part of your mind or specific tools, consider batching them together. Do all of one type of activity before moving on to the next.

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Set boundaries -

Setting boundaries at work, such as what hours you work, how you will work, and so on, will help your productivity. Setting boundaries helps individuals focus on the tasks without disruption or confusion.

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Use productivity apps -

In today's technology-centric world, there are tons of apps dedicated to productivity. Consider looking into and using some of them. Focus on only one or two though, so you don't clutter your mind trying everything out there at once.

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Limit multitasking -

Multitasking can hinder productivity. Therefore, aim to reduce it, as it divides your attention among multiple things and increases the likelihood of errors. Allocate your full attention to one thing at a time.

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Create a routine -

Routines help us get into the flow of things and to know when (and how) to complete tasks. For example, if each day you start by jotting down a to-do list, then prioritizing it, and then tackling it, you will get into a rhythm and be able to accomplish things quicker every day.

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Set deadlines -

Time management and deadlines will help you be more efficient and effective at work and ultimately more focused. Deadlines also help you avoid procrastination. By knowing you have a certain amount of time for various activities, you're more likely to abide by the times you've set.

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Reward yourself -

As you complete tasks or meet deadlines, reward yourself in a small way such as a little break or snack. Self-recognition can motivate you to do more and help improve your productivity overall.

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Stay positive -

A positive mindset will help you have a can-do attitude and motivate you to achieve more. Even if your work is feeling challenging or frustrating, aim to keep a positive outlook, as it can actually help you be more effective and efficient.

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Practice deep breathing -

Deep breathing is an excellent way to refresh our bodies and bring us clarity. When you're deep within a busy day and handling all your to-do list items, it can be helpful on occasion to take in a deep breath to recenter your mind and accomplish more.

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Use visual reminders -

Use sticky notes or reminders near you to help you remember important productivity items like breathing, mindfulness, and otherwise. Putting these friendly reminders in front of you will force you to remember them, and likely help improve your productivity.

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Limit social media -

Social media can be very tempting during the work day. However, if you're accessing social media while trying to complete tasks, then you're dividing your attention and will likely not get as much done. By avoiding social media usage during the work day, you can focus more.

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Adjust lighting -

Bright, well-lit spaces are more conducive to efficiency and creativity. If you're in a darker room, put on some overhead lighting or open a window and let in some natural light.

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Comfortable seating -

Comfortable seating will also help you focus more at work. If you can sit and remain seated for periods without feeling uncomfortable, then you're able to do more work.

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Benefits of staying focused -

Focus in the workplace is essential to both your success and the company's overall success. Three specific benefits will be covered in the following slides.

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1. Builds momentum -

When you are focused on your work, it's more likely to be completed efficiently and effectively. As you see the fruits of your labor, it can help motivate you to complete even more work.

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2. Increases productivity -

As you stay focused, the more you'll be able to accomplish. As you minimize distractions and utilize the tips in this guide, you can get (and stay) in the zone, thereby improving your productivity.

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3. Reduces stress -

By staying in the zone and on top of your tasks, responsibilities, and duties, you will also minimize the stress and pressure of what's on your plate. This focus will allow you to free up more time that can be used to improve and perfect your skills.

Sources: (Profit.co) (Indeed) (Good Life Goals)

See also: Stress-free jobs with high salaries

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