Productivity is different for everyone. Whether you are a business professional, an artist, or self-employed, you likely have a different definition of productivity than anyone else. However, most people can agree that productivity is how efficiently you use your limited time. If you have been lacking in this department lately, don’t worry: there are some easy, low-effort ways for you to get back on track. Here are 3 easy habits to push you towards your goals.
1. Exercise
No matter how much it pains you to get to the gym, research has proven time and time again that staying active is one of the best ways to maintain a steady level of energy, allowing you to get more out of your time. In a study by the University of Bristol, researchers discovered that 72% of employees who had exercised that day reported improvements in time management, and nine out of ten respondents found that exercise alleviated work demands.
This increase in productivity happens because of the nature of exercise: the increase of blood flow to your muscles provides more oxygen, which leads to an alert mindstate. In addition, exercise produces endorphins, which are hormones released during high activity periods to provide more energy. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins that will last long after your workout.
2. Better Sleep
Another simple way to get more out of your time is to get more and better-quality sleep. Statistics show that 1 in 3 adults suffer from a lack of sleep; you need at least 7 hours a night to reap the full benefits of a good night’s sleep.
Why is sleep so important? Basically, sleep is the period of time where your body gets to heal itself. The pathways and neural connections you created during the day fully form while you sleep. If you miss your 7 hours, the neural pathways won’t have a chance to fully form, and your decision-making and processing skills will be decreased the following day.
What is the best way to get better sleep? One great tactic is to limit your screen time before you turn in for the night. Blue light, the type that comes out of LED screens, disrupts your circadian cycle, which makes it harder to get to sleep. One hour before bed, try putting your phone or computer in another room.
In addition, check your mattress; if it has been more than 6 years since you replaced your bed, it’s definitely time for an upgrade. If you’re in the market for a new mattress, great news: there are tons of awesome beds that make sleep super easy. If you really want the most out of your night time routine, consider an adjustable bed. Adjustable beds include a power base that features a customizable position fit to your needs, like back pain, snoring, or restlessness, in addition to a comfortable foam mattress that is soft and firm in different places.
For example, Reverie mattresses feature Dreamcell technology, which allows you to choose different levels of firmness in strategic areas of your mattress. If you’re dedicated to great sleep that boosts your productivity, you might consider investing in a high-tech mattress that fits your specific needs.
3. GYST Days
If you find yourself floundering in work, chores, and your personal life, you may be interested in GYST days. GYST stands for ‘Get Your S*** Together’: these are days in which you focus on nothing but preparing for the week ahead by performing all of the menial tasks that you usually distribute through the week. If you start work on Monday, schedule your GYST day on Sunday and watch your productivity soar. Here is an example of a GYST schedule, which you would complete in one day in preparation for the rest of the week:
- Maintain:
- Clean Bathroom
- Vacuum and Mop
- Wash Dishes
- Wash Sheets
- Prepare
- Schedule Appointments
- Fill Out Calendar
- Lay Out Clothes
- Meal Prep
By exercising, getting better sleep, and preparing for your week, you will likely see a considerable improvement in your energy levels. When you have more energy, you will have more motivation to make better decisions and analyze situations to the best of your abilities. Though these habits are seemingly uncorrelated to your daily business, the side effects of great habits will increase your productivity.
