We’ve all heard of the 3 o’clock slump. But what if this slump gradually starts to last all day?
Routines have disintegrated as many teams have moved to full-time remote work. As the days start getting shorter, motivation can be hard to come by.
Here are some tips to help you stay on an even keel and power through your to-do list:
Routine is Everything
Wake up earlier – It can be tempting to simply roll out of bed at two minutes to nine and jump straight on your laptop. Trust me, I’ve been there. But giving yourself some time to wake up and get going in the morning can set you up for the day.
Try setting your alarm for an hour before your start time. This helps you feel calmer, more energised and ready for the day ahead.
Exercise – Some movement in the a.m can boost your energy for the rest of the day. Stick on a yoga video, or even just go for a quick stroll outside to shake the cobwebs off. Here are some tips on making a plan and getting started.
Breakfast – Skipping breakfast might seem like a time saving manoeuvre but come 11 am, your stomach will be complaining. Starting the day with healthy slow release foods like porridge can give you a steady stream of energy right up to lunchtime.
Break down your tasks
Eat the Frog – Rest assured, no frogs were harmed in the making of this list. The proverbial eating of the frog refers to tackling your toughest task first thing. You know the one that makes you go NOOOOO!!! There’s your frog. Get that out of the way first, and the rest of your day will seem infinitely easier.
Tick off your to-do list – Small manageable tasks are the name of the game. There is little more satisfying than ticking off tasks from a to-do list.
These mini feelings of accomplishment can help bolster you when you’re feeling demotivated. And if that means adding some additional tasks to the list, only to cross them right off again – go right ahead!
Reward Yourself – Build little rewards into your day. Promise yourself “If I just finish this presentation deck, I will treat myself to a nice coffee” or “If I get these done, I’ll take the dog out for a walk in the park”. These little trade offs can keep you motivated and help you get things done.
Work in Spurts
Pomodoro Method – This productivity hack couldn’t be simpler. It involves working in 25 minute bursts with a 5 minute break afterwards.
It’s a way of creating a laser focus and prevents multi-tasking. There are a whole range of Pomodoro apps available online which even provide you with a timer!
Take Breaks – Speaking of 5 minute breaks, make sure to take yours! Working from home has eliminated the traditional structure of our working days.
If you are feeling demotivated, take a break to re-centre. Do some jumping jacks, or go for a short walk in the fresh air. You will come back refreshed and ready for action.
Most importantly – Go Easy! – Remember to mind yourself. We are working through totally unprecedented times and it’s extremely difficult to resume pre-covid levels of work output. Don’t push yourself too hard.