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10 ways to boost motivation at work this summer
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How to keep your mind on work, stay motivated and be productive during the hazy days of summer.
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By Tammy Sutherland
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6. Use e-mail effectively
'Tis the season for out-of-office replies, so avoid putting your current task on hold just because you've received another e-mail. "One good tip is to review and handle incoming e-mail at set times each day," suggests Phaneuf. "This eliminates being interrupted and distracted each time a new email arrives." And personal emailing is fine, provided it doesn't get out of control.
Don't worry about taking a minute to send a thank you message to your sister for hosting last night's barbecue, but it's best to avoid group e-mails on work time to arrange a weekend picnic with friends.
7. Determine your peak time
Whether you're full of focused energy first thing in the morning or need to warm up before you hit your stride, everybody has a best time of day. If possible, schedule your most complicated projects during your peak time.
Phaneuf also recommends organizing your day according to tasks: "If you have to read and analyze information, try to do it at a time when you are not likely to be interrupted. If you need to find a creative solution to a problem, do it at a time when you can brainstorm with a coworker."
8. Create manageable tasks
If a new project is added to your plate a week before your scheduled break, don't panic. Instead, view the assignment in smaller pieces. "Breaking down a project can make it less overwhelming and reveal component tasks that might be delegated out," explains Phaneuf. Estimate what you will be able to complete prior to your departure and organize the rest before you leave.
9. Jot it down
You may find yourself juggling more than usual, particularly if you're helping to cover other people's absences, so don't try to remember everything. Instead, keep a pad of paper handy so you can quickly jot down anything you need to do that isn't related to your current task. "When you write things down, you can focus your mind on the task at hand rather than trying not to forget the ‘to do list' in your head."
10. Embrace opportunities
With so many people taking time off during the summer months, this could be the perfect chance for you to show your manager what you're capable of by taking on some extra responsibilities, even if it's just temporary. Learning valuable new skills could keep you from daydreaming about the weekend. "This also demonstrates that you are a team player and willing to learn -- both of these are desirable characteristics when the company is looking to promote someone," says Phaneuf.
With a little extra effort, you can take these great ideas and achieve some goals this summer that involve pay raises and promotions -- as well as sunscreen and gelato.
How do you get it all done? Take some time-management tips from multi-tasking women and stay organized, no matter what you have on your plate.
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