Do you work hard, but keep falling further behind? You cross one task off your to do list, but your boss hands you two new assignments. Your schedule is full, and then your children tell you they need costumes for their school play. There are only so many hours in the day, but you can use them more efficiently. If you’re already working as hard as you can, learn how to work smarter. Try these 14 habits that will make you more productive.

1. 14 Habits That Make You
More Productive

2. Introduction
Do you work hard, but keep falling further behind? You cross one task
off your to do list, but your boss hands you two new assignments. Your
schedule is full, and then your children tell you they need costumes for
their school play.
There are only so many hours in the day, but you can use them more
efficiently. If you’re already working as hard as you can, learn how to
work smarter. Try these 14 habits that will make you more productive.

3. Investing in Yourself
It’s easy to forget about your health and wellbeing when you’re busy
and stressed. However, taking care of yourself gives you the energy you
need.

4. Develop these habits and support
your health every day

5. Eat healthy.
The way you eat affects your performance. Start your day with a hearty
breakfast. Lighten up on late night snacking. Choose whole foods packed
with nutrients that your mind and body need.

6. Sleep well.
Go to bed and wake up on a regular schedule, even on weekends. Use
fans and shutters to block out lights and noise that can disrupt your rest.

7. Exercise regularly.
Stay active with a variety of moderate and vigorous activities. Find
different ways of working out that you enjoy, so you’ll want to stick with
them. For example, sometimes you might want to follow an exercise
regimen, while other times you play sports with your friends.

8. Continue learning.
Keep your knowledge and skills up to date. Attend courses at a local
university or earn certifications online. Read fiction and nonfiction books.

9. Set goals.
Give yourself something to strive for each day. Having specific targets
gives you motivation and helps you to evaluate your progress.

10. Collaborating with Others
When you work with others toward common goals, you can accomplish more in less
time. You may have more fun too.

11. Give first.
If you want more friends and allies in your life, you may need to make
the first move. Focus on what you can do for others.

12. Network actively.
Stay in touch with former colleagues and reach out to new contacts. Go to
industry events and join committees at the local chapter of your
professional association. Participate in online forums and groups.

13. Communicate clearly.
Speak tactfully and directly. Practice good listening skills. Make eye
contact and give others your full attention. Proofread your messages and
try to be concise.

14. Welcome feedback.
Let others know that you appreciate constructive input. Use their
comments to make positive changes in your attitude and behavior. Thank
them for their time and thoughtfulness.

15. Managing Your Time
Do you feel like the days slip away too quickly? The choices you make can help you
take control of your life. Your time is valuable, so spend it efficiently and effectively.

16. Track your activities.
Start by figuring out where your time is going. Use a notebook or an app
to record what you're doing during a typical week. You’ll be able to
calculate how much time you need to allocate for routine tasks, and you
may discover some nonessential chores you can eliminate.

17. Get organized.
Create systems and routines that will save you time and effort. Clear away
clutter around your home and office. Batch similar tasks together.

18. Plan your days.
Make your choices more intentional with a weekly or monthly calendar.
Block out time for your most important priorities.

19. Follow your plan.
A good plan helps you only when you follow it! Make changes when
necessary but incorporate them into your plan and continue to follow the
rest of the plan.

20. Take breaks.
Remember to give yourself some down time to relax and have fun. Leave
your office at lunch time. Stand up and stretch when you’ve been sitting
for long periods.

21. You have a lot you want to accomplish in life. Increasing your
productivity will help you to experience more success and less stress.