Routines For Better Workday — Small Step For You, Huge Step For Your Efficiency

Have you ever wondered how to have a few simple personal rituals to get through the workday without feeling exhausted at the end?

I remember those days — it felt endless and empty.

Now it is a completely different story. A few years ago when I was at the peak of doing research, I incorporated four routines to make myself less tired and more effective. Even though some of these might look like small things, they will make a huge difference in everyday life.

You don’t have to make tectonic shifts in order to have amazing results. Usually, all you need is small changes that will make a life-changing turnaround.

Let me show you my top four rituals that really make a difference.

Morning pre-set

Okay, so picture this: it’s early morning, the birds are chirping, and I’m nestled in my favorite spot with a cup of tea. That’s my cue for a morning meditation session. Just ten minutes of quiet reflection, focusing on my breath and setting positive intentions for the day ahead.

It’s like giving my brain a gentle wake-up call and setting the stage for a productive day. It sets a positive tone for the day by clearing the mind and reducing stress, fostering mental clarity and resilience to tackle challenges effectively.

And it’s only ten minutes, a lot less than an average person spends on social media. Just close your eyes and let go.

Diving Deep

I’m all about setting intentions and goals for the day ahead. Each morning, I jot down three big tasks that I want to tackle and I use the Bento app for that. Not just any tasks — the ones that will move the needle and bring me closer to my long-term goals.

Having a clear roadmap helps me stay on track and prioritize my time effectively. Plus, there’s nothing more satisfying than crossing those big-ticket items off my list. Well, except for that one time when I accidentally spilled tea all over my meticulously crafted goals. Let’s just say it was a wake-up call to invest in a spill-proof mug — and just like that it became another win!

All You Need Is Tomato

You have probably heard of the Pomodoro Technique. It’s a game-changer, it really is.

It boosts productivity by breaking tasks into manageable intervals, maintaining focus and motivation while preventing burnout through regular breaks.

Here’s the deal: I set a timer for 25 or up to 45 minutes and work like a champ, laser-focused on a single task. Then, when the timer dings, I take a short break — five minutes to stretch, grab a snack, or just chill. Rinse and repeat.

It’s amazing how much I can accomplish in those focused bursts of time. Plus, knowing that a break is just around the corner keeps me motivated and prevents burnout.

Midday Swing

Sitting for hours on end? No thanks.

That’s why I create a daily mission to get up and move throughout the day. You can look at it like a bigger Pomodoro break. Whether it’s a quick stroll around the block, a few yoga poses, or a spontaneous dance party in my living room, movement is key to keeping my energy levels up and my creativity flowing.

Midday movement refreshes both body and mind, improving focus, creativity, and overall well-being by combating sedentary habits and reinvigorating energy levels. Plus, it’s a great way to break up the monotony of the workday and inject a little fun into my routine.

I usually make do it between bigger tasks, so when get back to work I can refocus with new energy.

And there you have it — my four not-so-secret weapons for staying productive and in a good mood, day in and day out.

From meditation mishaps to tea catastrophes, these rituals may come with their fair share of laughs, and at the end, I ask myself: isn’t life just a little more fun when you’re dancing through it with a spilled cup of ambition?