I have to admit that it was hard to return to work on Monday after the long Thanksgiving holiday weekend.
Here is what I find helps me to get back into "work mode" and use my time and effort wisely:
Prepare for tomorrow morning the last thing today
I print my calendar for tomorrow before I leave work each day. I review appointments, projects, and meetings for the day. This ensures I'm prepared for what the new day brings. This is a MUST for me.
Write down my top three goals for the day each morning
This keeps me focused on what needs my attention when I have a break in my schedule. It is a marvelous feeling to have those three things done before my lunch break.
Read emails twice a day - at 10:00 a.m. and at 4:00 p.m.
My day does not start with my Outlook Inbox. If I start there, other people are influencing how I am spending my time and energy. My attention goes to my Top Three Things To Do List and preparing for upcoming meetings. Sometimes I read my emails when I return from my lunch break.
Maintain work and personal life boundaries. When it's time to go to work, get busy. When it's time to stop work, turn it off. This is way easier said than done. I admit to this being a challenge for me.
What tips do you use to stay focused and be productive at work? Share them in the comments section below.