One of the biggest struggles people are having while being quarantined is staying productive.
Because your days may be stuck behind those four walls for a bit, we're taking a look at some tips to help improve your productivity during these trying times.
1. Create a FLEXIBLE schedule
The key word here is flexible. If you're not a morning person, more than likely this quarantine isn't going to magically turn you into one, so create a schedule that is actually reasonable for your lifestyle.
Be realistic about your tasks and if you feel like you're being drained by the end of the day, try to space the things out. One of the aspects about this pandemic is how emotionally and mentally draining it can be on an individual. If you feel like you need a break from things for a while, do that. But try to be productive about those decisions.
Productivity coach Rose-Anne Uwague weighed in on this topic with Forbes saying, "Honesty is key. If you don't feel like doing something because you are drained, overwhelmed or tired, it is better not to do it. If the lack of desire is merely laziness, then dump the excuses and get up and go!"
2. Prioritize your to-do list
This may be an obvious one, but try to choose the tasks based on what has to get done that day. If you can, try to pair activities together! Now that's not saying you should try your new workout routine while learning how to cook, but if you have to do some work on the computer, why not do your laundry at the same time? Things you can pair are tasks that can be paused if one of them needs to take priority.
3. If you're looking for a job, start building up your resume!
This one doesn't just apply to those who are struggling through unemployment. Working on your resume, strengthening your LinkedIn page or even creating a website is something that will keep you on top of your game if you do hit the hard times. It's a task that can only help you!
If you're looking to improve your LinkedIn page, we have an article perfect for you right here.
4. Learn a new skill!
You've probably heard this from dozens of people, but learning a skill doesn't have to be a monumental thing. In some ways, it can just teach you something new or give you something to add to that resume we talked about.
Here's a list of a few great programs that focus on learning new things! Some of them are free and some of them are subscription based. Here's our favorites.
- CodeAcademy: Learn how to code for free through 180 hours of content
- SkillShare: Online classes that range from writing to bettering your lifestyle (You can get 2 free months of Skillshare Premium as a new member)
- Coursera: Learning skills from the top universities (also offer programs to complete certificates and degrees online from world-class universities and companies)
- Lynda: Lynda recently partnered with LinkedIn and has online courses from software development to business (One free month for new members)
- Duolingo: Learn a language for free!
5. Know when to take a break
This doesn't mean you should be sitting watching an entire season of The Office to avoid writing that expense report, what it does mean is to recognize your signs of exhaustion. If you have the ability to, go for a walk or step outside for 10 minutes. If you're unable to leave your house at this time, try to do some stretches or schedule quick phone calls with family when you need a break from work.
Rome wasn't built in a day, so if its a struggle to stay motivated, realize you are not alone.
If you're struggling through the pandemic, whether it may be mental health, unemployment or just trying to make ends meet, we've got you covered. We have a number of resources under our Rebound Maryland section that can help.