06 Sep 8 Things You Should Do at the Start of Every Work Day
The holiday period ends soon. We have to face busy days and difficult mornings when we do not feel ready for work. How do we return to the rhythm of the working days?
The first few hours of the work day can have a significant effect on your level of productivity over the following 8 hours. So it’s important to have a morning routine that sets you up for success.
Which are the most important things you have to do in the morning?
1. Arrive on time. This may be obvious to the most of us but some don’t realize that showing up late can not only leave a bad impression, but also it will delay all your tasks on that day. “Getting in on time or a little early helps you organize better the day and helps you set up a routine to be more productive,” says Lynn Taylor, workplace expert and bestselling author.
2. Take a deep breathe. Literally! Michael Kerr, an international business speaker, author and president of “Humor at Work” says we should be focused on the present moment and what we have to do in that moment. Many people come into work nervous because they don’t have enough time at home to disconnect and then come back unprepared for another day of work.
3. Start each day with a list of priorities. Set your goals for each day and establish the emergency list, but also reserve time for unexpected tasks. Learn properly how to manage your time and focus efficiently your energy.
4. Don’t be moody. Pay attention to your mood and be aware of its effect on others. Even you are not a morning person, try to have a positive attitude when you arrive at the office. Grab a cup of coffee, if needed and get into the rhythm of the day.
5. Be present! Physically and mentally. Communicate! Smile! Especially if you’re in a leadership position and you have subordinates. The time used to reconnect with your team members is essential and little things as making eye contact, smiling, asking them about their free time or checking in on what they may need help, helps you as a leader take the pulse of your team and set the tone of a new day!
6. Ensure that your workspace is organized. Cleaning and organizing the office will help you focus better during the day. Even the communications are through e-mail and by phone, if your boss or colleagues stop at your office and leave a sticky note about a discussion or meeting, you don’t want this reminder to be placed on a mountain of papers.
7. Place important calls and send urgent e-mails. If you know you need to give someone an answer or send an information, an offer, do it in the morning. If you wait until the midday, there’s a greater chance you won’t hear back before the end of the day. “It’s frustrating trying to finish something and depend on certain answers that you do not receive because your e-mail did not leave the first part of the day, being lost on other matters. If you have your e-mail prepared and sent in the early hours of the morning, you should be able to accomplish all the tasks by the end of the day ” says Lynn Taylor.
8. Take advantage of your cleared head. Many people feel they are more creative and more productive and their brain functions best in the morning. If you are one of them, solve the most important tasks in the morning and let for later those that are routine.
