The human mind works best when it knows what’s coming. Even if you consider yourself flexible, it’s smart to schedule your time in case anything unexpected comes up. Essentially, you want to have your priorities figured out before you start your day, so avoid wasting time trying to figure out where to go next after you complete a task.
“There are times during the day when one task or function ends, whether filling out a report or brushing your teeth, and you become self-aware. At that moment, step back and decide what really needs to be done in your next available block of time so you can choose the truly important task,” says Davis.
Whether you write it down in a notebook, agenda or on your smartphone, having a good idea of where you want to spend your time that day can help keep you productive. You can even schedule breaks into your day, try using this method that suggests working in 52 minute bursts with 17 minute breaks is the best way to keep yourself on task.