Brilio.net - Working in the digital era like today can be a headache with endless deadlines. Email inboxes are constantly flooded with notifications from clients to superiors asking for work progress updates. Monthly targets that must be met plus sudden meetings make work schedules messy.
Maintaining sanity in the midst of a busy work routine is very important. If you don't have the right strategy, you might even lose your enthusiasm and even trigger burnout. Well, here are some simple tips that can keep you relaxed but still productive.
From managing your time to taking a short break, there are many little tricks that can help you face your workday. With these habits, you can still enjoy yourself amidst your busy schedule. Let's discuss the tips to stay happy and sane amidst your busy schedule , summarized by brilio.net from various sources on Sunday (3/11).
1. Apply the time blocking method for time management.
photo: freepik.com/benzoix
The time blocking method is a way of organizing a schedule by dividing work time into specific blocks for specific tasks. For example, the morning block from 9-11 is specifically for working on reports, 11-12 is for replying to emails, and 1-3 pm is for meetings.
This method helps you focus on one job without being distracted by multitasking which can be overwhelming. Research from the University of California shows that it takes an average of 23 minutes to refocus after being distracted in the middle of a job. Time blocking also provides a clear break between tasks.
2. Know and respect your own energy limits.
Everyone has peak hours or hours when their energy and focus are at their maximum. Some are most productive in the morning, but others can only focus in the afternoon. Arrange your work schedule according to your peak hours and then place the heavy tasks when your energy is high.
Leave light work for low energy times. Don't force yourself to work continuously when you are tired because it will actually decrease the quality of your work and make you prone to making mistakes.
3. Prioritize tasks with the Eisenhower matrix.
The Eisenhower matrix divides tasks based on their level of urgency and importance. Categorize all work into 4 quadrants:
- Important & urgent (work on it now)
- Important but not urgent (scheduled)
- Not important but urgent (delegated)
- Not important & not urgent (deleted/postponed)
This way, you can be wiser in determining what to do first and what can be postponed without feeling guilty.
4. Apply the pomodoro technique to maintain focus.
The pomodoro technique divides work time into 25-minute intervals of full focus followed by a 5-minute break. After 4 pomodoro sessions, take a longer break of 15-30 minutes.
This method prevents mental fatigue because the brain is given regular breaks to recover. Research from DeskTime shows that the ideal work-rest interval is 52 minutes of work followed by 17 minutes of rest. Adjust the duration to your personal conditions and preferences.
5. Create an organized information storage system.
Use digital tools such as Notion, Evernote or Microsoft OneNote to store notes, documents or important information in a structured manner.
Create clear folders and tags to make it easy to find files when needed. Save templates and SOPs for routine tasks so you don't have to start from scratch every time. A neat system saves time and mental energy from fumbling around looking for data.
6. Do digital declutter regularly.
Clean your email inbox, delete unused files, unsubscribe from newsletters that are rarely read, then set notifications on your phone/laptop so that they are not overwhelming. Too much digital stimulus makes the brain tired of processing information. Microsoft research shows that 50% of workers feel their productivity decreases due to notification distractions. Limit the number of browser tabs opened at once to reduce cognitive load.
7. Set clear boundaries with coworkers.
Communicate reasonable working hours and response times to coworkers. There is no need to be available 24/7 or immediately respond to chats/emails outside of working hours. Use the status feature in work chat apps to let people know when you are focused or not to be disturbed. Clear boundaries prevent burnout from feeling like you have to be on call all the time.
8. Insert self-care in between work routines.
Do mindful breathing for 5-10 minutes when you start to feel stressed. Do light stretching every 1-2 hours to relieve muscle tension. Drink water regularly and eat lunch on time with balanced nutrition. Harvard Business Review research proves that this simple self-care helps maintain work performance and mental health optimally in the long term.
9. Create a reward system for yourself.
Set a small reward after completing a difficult task or achieving a target. For example, a short walk, buying favorite food, to watching 1 episode of a series. Rewards trigger dopamine which makes the brain more enthusiastic about facing the next challenge. But remember the portion is sufficient, don't let the reward become prolonged procrastination.
10. Evaluate and adjust the work system periodically.
Review whether the work system implemented is effective or needs adjustment. Note what makes you productive and what makes you stressed. Everyone has a different work style, so not all of the tips above have to be followed exactly. Take what suits you and modify it according to your needs. The most important thing is to find a work rhythm that is sustainable in the long term.