If you’re struggling to organize your workday, you’re not alone. Many professionals face challenges with time management, staying focused, and maintaining energy levels throughout the day. Below is a practical guide based on insights from experienced professionals on how to create a productive routine.
1. Should I organize my day by task or by property (or project)?
Ashley Brennan: “I start my day with a to-do list and batch my emails (bottom-up approach). I also batch tasks by importance for an hour without distractions, handling contracts, closings, contingencies, compliance, etc. I check emails at set intervals and repeat this process.”
Brandy Haines Moreland: “Time blocking and lists!”
Erin Bell: “I time block my schedule and take a 15-minute walk in the afternoon before I start feeling sluggish. I also have a standing desk and take stretch breaks every 1-2 hours.”
Hannah Fraser: “My focus is awful! I have to time-block and actually time myself per task. Since my toddler is home with me, I structure my work around his schedule, which gives me an afternoon break.”
Patty Rife Laforte: “I struggle with working from home, so I go to an office every day to separate work and home life.”
✅ Solution: Time blocking, batching tasks by priority, and structuring work around key obligations help keep you on track. If working from home is challenging, consider setting clear work-life boundaries.
2. How can I avoid distractions and maintain energy levels?
Crystal Shurett: “B Complex vitamin at lunch helps prevent the afternoon slump!”
Angie Marie: “I take One-A-Day All Day Energy—it changed my life! But take it with food, or you’ll regret it.”
Jessica Klingsporn: “I cut out grains at lunch to avoid the afternoon slump. Also, I don’t dress up for the day, but my husband needs to in order to feel productive.”
April Oraboni Gaxiola: “I walk on a treadmill or walking pad for half the day, which helps with energy levels.”
Rebekah Tatum: “Breaking up my work throughout the day, working out, and wearing comfy clothes (not PJs, but leisurewear) helps me stay productive.”
✅ Solution: Nutrition, movement, and structured breaks can keep your energy up. Find what works for you—whether that’s supplements, a standing desk, or regular movement breaks.
3. What are some effective focus and productivity hacks?
Melissa White Gilbert: “Binaural beats (recommended by my doctor), essential oils, and raising my desk to a standing position help me focus.”
Toi Lark Wells: “Binaural beats + AirPods = great focus! I find them on Spotify.”
Ellie Diaz: “Music, yerba mate, a designated office space, and a comfy chair with lots of natural light keep me productive.”
Trena Cook: “Mini breaks reset my brain—walking around, hopping on Facebook for a few minutes, etc.”
Holly Marshall Reed: “Always wear shoes! Sitting in slippers makes me less productive.”
Clarissa Alfaro: “Getting dressed really makes a difference!”
Anne Amurao: “I put my bills at my computer desk 🤪”
✅ Solution: Try using binaural beats, setting up a comfortable workspace, incorporating movement, or even just getting dressed for work to help stay on track.
4. How can I maintain a good work-life balance and mindset?
Melissa Kiser: “Being passionate about growth and mixing up activities during the day keeps it from feeling like Groundhog Day.”
Carrie McKelvie: “I enjoy the work—maybe I wasn’t always that way.”
Nadja Gassert: “Frequent breaks help me avoid burnout. I take naps, do household chores, or play with my dog when I need to reset.”
Geraldine Gonzalez: “Starting my day right helps me stay focused—gym, breakfast, shower, reading, then work.”
✅ Solution: Enjoyment, variety, and structure can prevent burnout. Morning routines and intentional breaks can set the right tone for your day.
5. Final Reflection: Is it the work or just the afternoon slump?
Karla Becker Haremza: “Are you disliking the work, or is it just that 3 PM sluggish, ‘I want to nap’ feeling?”
✅ Solution: Identify if your struggle is with work itself or just a natural slump in energy. Adjusting your routine can help mitigate afternoon fatigue.
Takeaways & Actionable Steps:
- Try time blocking – schedule your tasks into focused blocks to avoid distractions.
- Optimize your energy – adjust your nutrition, movement, and workspace to support productivity.
- Use focus-enhancing tools – binaural beats, standing desks, and ergonomic setups can make a difference.
- Balance work and breaks – intentional pauses help prevent burnout.
- Reflect on your motivation – determine whether you need a change in routine or if it’s time for a deeper reassessment of your work.
Everyone works differently—experiment with different strategies and find what fits your rhythm best!
