How to structure your work day to beat procrastination

We all know the feeling of procrastination – that nagging sense that we should be doing something but somehow just can't get started. It's frustrating, demotivating, and can seriously hold us back from achieving our goals at work.

Having a well-structured workday is key to setting yourself up for success. By organising your time and prioritising tasks, you'll be surprised at how much more you can get done – and how much better you'll feel about it.

Here are some actionable tips to get you started:

📋 Prioritise & break up your tasks: Start your day by identifying the 2-3 most important tasks for the day. Break up the larger tasks into smaller chunks and focus on completing the easiest ones first for some small wins.

🧱 Try out time blocking: Split your day into blocks of time, each dedicated to a specific activity. This could be writing emails for 30 minutes, working on a project for 90 minutes, or taking a break for 15 minutes.

🍅 Use the pomodoro technique: This technique involves working in 25-minute bursts, followed by a 5-minute break. After four 30-minute ‘pomodoros’, take a longer break of 20-30 minutes. 

🔕 Eliminate distractions: Turn off notifications, put your phone away, and create a dedicated workspace free from distractions.

🏆 Reward yourself: Don't forget to celebrate your wins, no matter how small! This reinforces positive behaviour and makes the whole process more enjoyable.

While structuring your day is important, remember to schedule breaks and avoid overworking yourself. Taking time to recharge is essential for long-term productivity and well-being.

— — —

Did you find these tips helpful? Subscribe to Calm Collective’s Weekly Newsletter.