If you manage to do these 10 things during the day, you’re more productive than you may realize

Ever catch yourself wondering if you’re being as productive as you could be?
Chances are, you’re doing better than you think.
Though it may seem like your to-do list is never-ending, there are certain tasks and habits which might indicate that you’re accomplishing more than you give yourself credit for.
In this piece, we’re going to delve into these ‘productivity indicators’ – the 10 things that if you manage to do during the day, signify that you’re more productive than you may realize.
These might seem like ordinary tasks, but they’re actually markers of a highly effective and efficient individual. So, let’s dive in!
1) Prioritizing tasks
Ever find yourself making a list of tasks to complete before the day begins?
This might seem like a simple habit, but it’s actually a sign of high productivity. Prioritizing tasks allows you to focus on what’s important and ensures that you’re not wasting time on less significant activities.
Productive individuals understand the value of time and aim to maximize it by focusing on tasks that yield the most results.
Whether it’s sorting out your emails first thing in the morning or tackling the most challenging task when your energy levels are high, effective prioritization is key to efficient productivity.
2) Taking regular breaks
I used to think that working non-stop was the key to being productive. But boy, was I wrong.
What I’ve learned over time is that taking regular breaks is not only beneficial but crucial for maintaining productivity. It might seem counterintuitive, but stepping away from work for a short while actually helps clear the mind, reduce stress and ultimately increases focus when you get back to it.
For instance, every day after lunch, I take a 15-minute walk outside. The fresh air and change of scenery give me a much-needed break from the screen and help me clear my head.
When I return to my desk, I find that I am more focused and ready to tackle the tasks ahead with renewed energy.
3) Making time for learning
It might seem like there’s never enough time in the day to get everything done, let alone learn something new. But if you’re carving out a chunk of your day for learning, you’re on the right track.
Productive people understand that continuous learning is a key component of personal and professional growth. They make it a point to stay updated with industry trends, learn a new skill, or even read a book that adds value to their lives.
Whether it’s a podcast during your commute, an online course during your lunch break, or reading a chapter of a book before bed, making time for learning shows a commitment to self-improvement and productivity.
So, if you’re dedicating part of your day to acquiring new knowledge, rejoice! You’re more productive than you may realize.
4) Practicing mindfulness
Mindfulness might sound like a buzzword, but it has tangible benefits when it comes to productivity. Essentially, it’s about being present in the moment, fully engaged in whatever you’re doing.
A study from the University of Washington found that workers who practice mindfulness training are more focused and less likely to switch tasks frequently. This increased ability to stay on task reduces wasted time and leads to a notable increase in productivity.
5) Expressing gratitude
Taking a moment each day to express gratitude might seem like a simple act, but its impact is profound.
When we express gratitude, we acknowledge the good in our lives and this positivity can fuel our productivity. It shifts our focus from what’s wrong to what’s right, helping us approach tasks with a positive mindset and enhancing our overall performance.
If you’re making it a habit to jot down things you’re grateful for, or simply taking a moment to appreciate the good around you, know this — you’re not only nurturing your mental wellbeing but also paving the way for a more productive day.
6) Establishing healthy boundaries
In our always-connected world, it’s easy to blur the lines between work and personal life. However, those who manage to establish and maintain healthy boundaries are often more productive.
Setting boundaries could mean different things to different people. For some, it might be turning off email notifications after work hours. For others, it could be setting aside time for family and friends without work interruptions.
Whatever your boundaries are, sticking to them helps maintain a work-life balance, reduces stress, and boosts your productivity in the long run.
7) Staying organized
An organized workspace can do wonders for your productivity. It’s not just about having a tidy desk; it’s also about knowing where your things are, saving time and avoiding unnecessary stress.
Those who keep their workspace clean and their files organized often find it easier to focus on their tasks. They spend less time searching for things and more time getting things done.
Moreover, a clutter-free environment can also help clear your mind, allowing you to think more clearly and work more effectively.
8) Exercising regularly
Regular physical activity is not only good for your body, but it’s also great for your mind. It’s not surprising to know that a study by the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that running for 15 minutes a day or walking for an hour reduces the risk of major depression by 26%.
In addition to its mental health benefits, exercise can also boost your cognitive function, enhance your creativity and improve your focus — all of which contribute to increased productivity.
9) Embracing imperfections
For a long time, I grappled with the idea of perfection. The need to get everything right the first time used to consume me, often leaving me paralyzed and unable to move forward.
One day, I realized that it wasn’t perfection, but progress that mattered. Embracing my imperfections and learning to see them as opportunities for growth transformed my perspective and boosted my productivity.
Now, I remind myself that it’s okay to make mistakes and that each error is a step towards improvement. This shift in mindset has freed me from the shackles of perfectionism, allowing me to focus more on the task at hand and less on the fear of failure.
10) Cultivating a growth mindset
Possessing a growth mindset, a belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed with effort, is arguably the most significant trait of highly productive individuals.
People with a growth mindset see challenges as opportunities to learn rather than obstacles to overcome. They embrace change, persist in the face of setbacks, and understand that effort is the path to mastery.
If you’re cultivating this mindset, you’re setting yourself up not only for increased productivity but also for long-term success. It’s the ultimate tool in turning your goals and aspirations into achievements!