Establishing healthy professional habits keeps your workflow going even when you’re having a rough day. Pick up some tips on how to make the most of your work day and become more positive and productive at the office.
1. Get your hardest tasks done at the beginning of the day
Whenever your mind is fresh and you’ve just had your coffee, you should aim to tackle the most difficult challenges. That way, as you grow more fatigued throughout the day, you can move onto simpler jobs. Moreover, after getting through a productive morning you’ll have more momentum to keep your day going strong.
2. Take time each day to greet people
A friendly workplace sets the tone for a positive and productive day. Making sure to say “hello” to your office mates can make for a friendlier environment. It’s the base for developing relationships with the people around you.
3. Set goals and reward yourself
Structuring your day with specific goals and tasks to get done is a great way to stay organized and make sure you finish your work. When you get done with a task, you can cross it off your list and take a moment to reward yourself to stay motivated.
4. Take breaks
Whether it’s taking a walk, meditating, chatting with friends, or all three, it’s important to get up from your desk and do something different from work each hour. Finding time to clear your head from work will actually make you a happier and more efficient member of the team.
5. Start your day with a healthy breakfast
Get the energy you need for the day with a nutrient-full breakfast. Avoid super sugary foods and try to get your day started with whole grains, fresh fruits and lean proteins. Try to limit yourself to just one coffee, if you can, as caffeine can irritate your stomach and cause restlessness.
6. Make plans for after work
Whether it’s meeting up with your friend, walking through a local park or doing a Skype session with your parents, it’s handy to have an idea of what you want to do when your internship is over. Having something to look forward to at the end of a long day can help you stay positive and keep you motivated to finish your tasks on time.
7. Bring some cheer into your office space
Family photos, knick-knacks, music, a comfy sweater… all of these items can help you feel more relaxed and at ease at the workplace. Just make sure you check with your manager before you move your stuff in.
8. Bring your lunch
Going out to eat, spending a lot of money out and wasting time waiting for food depletes two key resources: time and money. Plus, it’s easier to eat healthy if you bring your lunch. Also, when you bring your lunch you can eat faster and spend part of your lunch break on a walk, meditating or chilling out.
Now you know how to make the most of your work day, learn more about how to boost your career abroad.
Sources: https://www.buzzfeed.com/nataliebrown/18-ways-to-make-your-workday-suck-less?utm_term=.onBWx7Mmo#.vpQvql10m
Photos
1. based on Alex giving me budget approval to buy a helicopter, by Andre Charland, CC-by-2.0
2. based on Office Fun and Games, by Richard Clifford, CC-by-SA 2.0
3. based on Day 263 – Lunch At My Desk, by slgckgc, CC-by-2.0
