“Time is what we want most, but what we use worst.”
William Penn
According to this study from 2014, an individual’s hourly productivity rates significantly drop when they exceed 50 hours work per week.
Canny people know the importance of taking time out at the weekend so they can relax and re-energise.
With that in mind, Dr. Travis Bradberry recommends the following tips for being as productive as possible whilst working less.
Designating time
It’s easier than ever to be access work email 24/7 in todays digital culture. On one hand, that means work can continue anywhere, anytime — but on the other hand there’s a risk of work taking over your life.
If you really have to work during the evenings or weekends, just be sure to allocate designated time slots to stay in control.
Schedule and minimise chores
Everyday chores can also eat into your time. To prevent this from happening, schedule chores into the week so you don’t find yourself drowning in them at weekends.
Fitting in exercise
If you really don’t have time to exercise during the week, moving your body even for 10 minutes a day helps your body to release the brain’ naturally soothing neurotransmitter called GABA, which helps reduce stress. Making time for exercise also helps create space for creativity and fresh ideas to arise of their own accord. Even just walking in nature at the weekend can be very up-lifting.
Follow your passions
Indulging in your favourite hobbies at the weekend is the perfect way to ease stress and clear your mind. Sport, music, reading, painting or just hanging out with friends can give you just the break you need to make you more productive the following week.
Spend time with the family
Spending quality time with your family on the weekend is essential if you want to recharge and relax.
Set the weekend alarm as usual
If you can resist the temptation to have a lie in at the weekend, maintaining a consistent wake up time keeps the circiadian rhythm stable and not only helps you feel well rested, but helps you feel alert. Sleeping past your regular wake up time can cause grogginess, so its better to go to bed earlier than up later.
Designate some ‘me’ time
Finding a way to engage in some activities for yourself first thing in the morning can contribute to your wellbeing. The mind is at its peak in the 2 to 4 hours after you awake so this is your most productive time. Prepare for the week ahead. As little as 30 minutes planning for the coming week can help relieve stress and enable you to be more productive with a clear picture of what you need to focus on.
Business owner doubles his turnover and increases productivity by 20%, giving him weekends back.
One business owner has first-hand experience of using technology to free up his weekends — allowing him to become more productive and reducing stress.
“My passion for running the business has been reignited! I have less worries, more time and the insights to make better decisions. I see more of my family and although I am still busy, I’m able to be far more proactive and strategic. You can’t put a value on that.”
If you’re interested to learn how he managed to do this, click below to download the case study.
