3 Ways to Break Through Productivity Ruts

We’ve all been there… stuck in rut. Unmotivated. Bored. Possibly even a bit down in the dumps.

And, to be sure, when we’re in this dip it’s easy for our personal productivity to hit rock bottom.

With this said, here are 3 things I have personally used to break through these productivity barriers.

1. Make a List of the 3 Most Important Tasks

I have said this many times before… but if you don’t have a list of actions written down on a piece of paper you’re missing out.

I know there are lots of electronic productivity apps out there… I have tried them. They don’t work for me. Instead, nothing is better than a pencil and paper.

And taking this a step further… it’s easy to make a list of 43 tasks that need done. But huge lists like this can actually cause stress and anxiety. So, I’d encourage you to make a daily list of the 3 most important tasks for the day.

Once you have those 3 tasks done you can make a new list. But start with 3 and focus 100% of your efforts on them.

2. 5S your Workplace

Nothing stresses me out more than a messy work area. So when I find myself in a rut I find it very soothing and helpful to stop what I’m doing and do some good solid 5S.  Never heard of 5S?  Check this free 5S video out. 

Clean all the papers off your desk. Organize files. Vacuum the floor. Dust. Clean your computer monitor and keyboard. In short, spend an hour focused on the 5S of your personal workplace and goodness will come. I guarantee it.

3. Schedule a Vacation

Nothing seems to motivate me more than a pending vacation.

Of course, I realize vacations only come around once or twice a year for most people so this tip needs to be tweaked a bit for it to be of regular help.

So, schedule mini vacations. Perhaps a half day every month. I’ve had managers in the past who allowed me “comp” time since I used to travel a lot… so I’d be able to take off at noon on Friday.

So, if you’re able to manage it, schedule mini vacations as they will send your productivity through the roof!

What do you think?

What do you think of this list? Do you agree with my ideas? What other tips do you have to break through the dips we all find ourselves in from time to time?

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