How to Make Your Day Productive: 30 Rather Unusual Tips

If you’re looking for ways to boost your productivity, you’ve come to the right place. In this post, I’ll share how to make your day productive through some unusual productivity tips that actually work.

Some of these ideas might seem counterintuitive at first, but they have proven effective for many people, including myself. You’ll find a mix of techniques that range from simple changes in your routine to more unconventional approaches.

I’ve grouped them in a handful of categories to help present these thoughts in a more digestible form. Here are 30(ish) ways how to make your day productive:

Managing tasks and goals

When it comes to productivity, managing tasks and setting goals are crucial. Here are some less obvious, yet effective tips to help you get more done:

1. Deliberately procrastinate

This might sound counterintuitive, but intentionally putting off tasks can sometimes be beneficial. Allowing ideas to incubate can lead to bursts of creativity and more effective solutions when you finally tackle the task.

Procrastination, when used deliberately, allows your subconscious to work on the problem in the background. You might find that by the time you start working on the task, you have a clearer idea or a more innovative approach than you would have had initially.

2. Stop multitasking

Focus on one task at a time.

Multitasking can actually reduce productivity because your brain needs to constantly switch gears.

A study by researchers at Stanford University ¹ found that heavy multitaskers performed worse on tests of task switching, ability to filter out irrelevant information, and organizing thoughts compared to those who preferred doing one thing at a time. Multitaskers were slower at switching between tasks and had more trouble organizing their thoughts.

By concentrating on a single task, you can work more efficiently and produce higher-quality work. Dedicate uninterrupted time to each task, ensuring that you give it your full attention. This focused approach not only improves efficiency but also enhances the quality of your work, leading to better results overall.

3. Do the hardest task last

While conventional wisdom suggests tackling the hardest task first – “swallogin the frog” it’s called – doing it actually last can be beneficial for some people.

By handling smaller tasks first, you build momentum and confidence, making the difficult task feel more manageable by the end of the day. Throughout the day, your accomplishments on smaller tasks boost your morale, and you may find that the hard task isn’t as daunting as it seemed initially.

Plus, this method allows you to ensure that even if the hard task takes longer than expected, you’ve still completed many other important items on your list.

4. Set small goals

Breaking down big tasks into smaller, manageable goals can make them less daunting. It also provides a sense of accomplishment as you complete each one, keeping you motivated throughout the day.

For example, if you have a major project due, break it into smaller tasks such as research, outlining, drafting, and revising. Then, take those and break them into smaller ones once more.

Each small goal reached acts as a stepping stone, making the overall task seem less overwhelming and helping you maintain a steady pace without feeling overburdened.

5. Use the two-minute rule

If a task will take two minutes or less, do it immediately.

This helps you quickly knock out small tasks and keeps your to-do list manageable, freeing up mental space for more significant tasks.

These small tasks, when left undone, can pile up and create a mental burden. By addressing them promptly, you maintain a sense of control over your workload.

Additionally, the act of quickly completing these small tasks can create a positive momentum that makes it easier to tackle larger tasks.

6. Batch similar tasks

Group similar tasks together, such as making phone calls or doing administrative work. This minimizes the mental switch needed when jumping between different types of tasks, allowing you to stay in the zone longer.

For instance, designate a specific time block for responding to emails, another for making phone calls, and another for paperwork.

This approach helps maintain focus and reduces the cognitive load associated with task switching, making your work process more efficient and less stressful.

7. Prioritize tasks

Use a system like the Eisenhower Matrix to categorize tasks by urgency and importance. This helps you focus on what truly matters first, ensuring that your most critical tasks get the attention they deserve.

By categorizing tasks into four quadrants – urgent and important, important but not urgent, urgent but not important, and neither urgent nor important – you can clearly see where to direct your energy.

This method helps prevent wasting time on less important activities, ensuring that your efforts are aligned with your main goals.

Morning and daily routines

Creating effective routines can significantly enhance productivity. Here are some unusual but powerful tips to structure your day for maximum efficiency:

8. Start each morning the same way

Kick off your day with a consistent morning routine. It could be something simple like stretching, having a healthy breakfast, or a quick meditation session.

This sets a positive tone for the day. A well-structured morning routine helps you wake up your body and mind, preparing you to tackle the day’s challenges. By starting the day with positive, energizing activities, you create momentum that can carry you through your tasks more efficiently.

Moreover, a regular morning routine reduces decision fatigue by eliminating the need to make choices first thing in the morning.

Here are some elements you could include in your morning routine:

Stretching or exercise: Physical activity in the morning can wake up your body and get your blood flowing. It doesn’t have to be a full workout; even a short session of stretching, yoga, or a brisk walk can boost your energy levels and improve your mood.
Healthy breakfast: A nutritious breakfast provides the fuel your body needs to start the day. I’m not going to tell you what to include in yours exactly. I’m no expert on that.
Hydration: Drinking a glass of water first thing in the morning can help rehydrate your body after a night of sleep, kick-start your metabolism, and aid in digestion.
Mindfulness or meditation: Taking a few minutes for mindfulness or meditation can set a calm and focused tone for your day. More on this later in the post.
Reviewing your plan for the day: Spend a few minutes reviewing your schedule and priorities. This helps you mentally prepare for what’s ahead and ensures you start your day with a clear sense of purpose and direction.
Personal development: Use a part of your morning for activities that contribute to your personal growth. This could be reading a book, listening to a podcast, or engaging in a hobby that stimulates your mind and inspires you.
Gratitude practice: Reflecting on things you are grateful for can improve your mood and set a positive tone for the day. This can be done through journaling or simply thinking about things you appreciate in your life.
Setting intentions: Instead of just diving into your to-do list, take a moment to set intentions for the day. These are not specific tasks but rather the qualities you want to embody, such as being patient, focused, or creative.

9. Work fewer hours

It might sound strange, but working fewer hours can actually make you more productive.

The Icelandic government conducted trials from 2015 to 2019 where over 2,500 workers transitioned from a 40-hour week to either 35 or 36 hours per week with no pay cut ². The results showed that productivity remained the same or even improved in most workplaces. For example, the Reykjavik accountancy department processed 6.5% more invoices after reducing hours.

When you have limited time, you’re forced to focus on what’s essential and avoid time-wasting activities. By shortening your workday, you create a sense of urgency that compels you to concentrate on high-priority tasks.

This method also reduces burnout and keeps your mind fresher, allowing you to maintain a higher level of productivity throughout the week. Remember, it’s about the quality of work, not just the quantity of hours spent.

10. Under-schedule your day

Leave gaps in your schedule instead of packing it full.

This allows flexibility to handle unexpected tasks and reduces stress from a packed agenda. Having open slots in your day gives you the freedom to address urgent matters as they arise without derailing your entire schedule. It also provides time for mental breaks and spontaneous creativity, which can lead to better problem-solving and innovation.

Under-scheduling promotes a more balanced approach to productivity, ensuring that you remain effective without feeling overwhelmed.

11. Plan your day the night before

Spend a few minutes before bed planning out your next day. Jot down your top priorities and schedule your tasks. This way, you can hit the ground running in the morning.

Knowing exactly what needs to be done as soon as you wake up eliminates morning confusion. It also allows you to mentally prepare for the tasks ahead, making it easier to dive into work immediately.

This practice can also improve your sleep, as it helps clear your mind of lingering worries about the next day’s responsibilities.

12. Use time blocks

Break your day into chunks of time dedicated to specific tasks.

For example, set aside an hour for emails, another for meetings, and blocks for focused work. It helps keep you on track. Time blocking helps structure your day and ensures that you allocate sufficient time for each important activity. It reduces the tendency to multitask and allows you to enter a state of deep focus during each block.

By knowing exactly what you’re supposed to be doing and when, you can maintain a steady workflow and increase your overall efficiency.

There are some cool tools that can help you with this. I covered a number of them in this post.

13. Declutter your workspace

A clean and organized workspace can reduce distractions and make it easier to find what you need, saving you time and mental energy. Clutter can be a significant source of stress and distraction, impeding your ability to focus on your work. By maintaining a tidy workspace, you create an environment that is conducive to productivity and mental clarity.

Start by removing unnecessary items from your desk and surrounding area. Keep only the essentials within reach, such as your computer, notepad, and a few frequently used tools. Organize your documents and supplies in drawers or shelves, using labels to keep everything in its place. Regularly clean your workspace to prevent clutter from accumulating.

Health and well-being

Maintaining your health and well-being is crucial for sustained productivity. Here are some unusual yet effective tips to help you stay energized and focused throughout the day:

14. Take longer breaks

Instead of just short breaks, consider taking longer breaks throughout the day. It might feel like you’re losing time, but longer breaks can recharge you and increase your overall productivity.

For example, a study ³ by Korpela et al. (2016) found that taking lunchtime breaks and detaching from work increases energy levels at work, decreases exhaustion, and boosts vigor over time.

It turns out that stepping away from work for a more extended period allows your mind to rest and rejuvenate. You might use this time to take a walk, have a proper meal, or engage in a relaxing activity. By giving yourself ample time to unwind, you return to work with a clearer mind and renewed energy, ready to tackle tasks more effectively.

15. Embrace boredom

Allow yourself to be bored sometimes. It can spark creativity and give your mind a rest from constant stimulation, leading to better problem-solving later.

A study published in the Academy of Management Discoveries found that participants who went through a boredom-inducing task (sorting beans by color) performed better on a subsequent idea-generation task compared to those who did an interesting craft activity beforehand ⁴. The bored participants generated more unique and higher-quality ideas.

In our hyper-connected world, it’s easy to fill every moment with activity or entertainment. However, periods of boredom can encourage your brain to think creatively and come up with new ideas.

Embrace these moments as opportunities for your mind to wander and generate innovative solutions or approaches to tasks.

16. Schedule downtime

Plan specific times in your day for relaxation or activities that make you happy. This can improve your mood and energy levels, making you more productive during work hours.

Downtime isn’t just about resting; it’s also about engaging in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. Whether it’s reading, listening to music, or spending time with loved ones, these activities can recharge your emotional and mental batteries, making you more effective when you return to work.

17. Take regular breaks

I mentioned the value of longer breaks earlier in this post, but most likely you won’t be able to make your day “long breaks only.” So don’t forget to take short breaks throughout the day as well.

Stand up, stretch, or take a quick walk. It refreshes your mind and prevents burnout. Short breaks can help you avoid the mental fatigue that comes from prolonged periods of work.

Even just a few minutes away from your desk can boost your mood and improve your concentration when you return to work. Incorporating regular breaks into your routine ensures that you remain energized and productive.

18. Stay active

Incorporate physical activity into your day. Even a short walk or a series of 10-20 push-ups can boost your energy levels and improve your mood, making you more productive.

Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, enhancing cognitive function and reducing stress. Whether it’s a morning workout, a lunchtime walk, or stretching exercises throughout the day, staying active helps maintain your physical health and mental sharpness, which are essential for sustained productivity.

Tools and techniques

Leveraging the right tools and techniques can greatly enhance your productivity. Here are some tips that range from the unconventional to the practical, helping you stay organized and efficient:

19. Use a manual planner

In the digital age, using a physical planner can seem outdated. However, writing things down manually can improve memory retention and help you stay organized.

A study published in Psychological Science ⁵ found that students who took handwritten notes outperformed those who typed notes on computers when it came to recalling facts and being able to synthesize the information.

The act of writing engages your brain differently than typing, helping you remember tasks better. A manual planner also provides a visual overview of your schedule, making it easier to see your commitments at a glance. Plus, the tactile experience of writing and crossing off tasks can be satisfying and motivating.

20. Listen to music or background noise

For some, a completely silent environment can be stifling. However, background music or white noise can enhance focus and productivity for certain tasks.

Choose music that suits the activity – instrumental or classical music is often recommended for deep focus, while nature sounds or white noise can create a calm atmosphere. Experiment with different sounds to find what works best for you, and use it to create a conducive work environment that keeps distractions at bay.

You’ll also find that there are tons of apps that provide this sort of background noise or “productivity music.”

21. Change your environment frequently

Move to different workspaces throughout the day. Changing environments can keep your mind fresh and prevent stagnation. If possible, have a few designated work spots – like a desk, a cozy chair, or even an outdoor space. This variety can help maintain your energy levels and reduce the monotony of staying in one place for too long. A new environment can also stimulate creativity and give you a fresh perspective on your tasks.

For example, in my case, I like my standing desk the most – I told you about it in another post – see it here:

But I also like to switch to a more standard old-school one:

Plus, of course, if you’re the kind of person who only needs their laptop to work, then the local cafe is a great spot.

22. Use productivity tools

There are tons of apps and tools out there like to-do lists, calendars, and project management apps that can help you stay organized.

Tools like Trello, Asana, Todoist, or my personal favorites Notion and RTM can help you track your tasks and deadlines efficiently.

Find the ones that best suit your workflow and integrate them into your routine. These tools can provide reminders, organize your projects, and ensure you stay on top of your commitments without feeling overwhelmed.

23. Automate where possible

Use automation tools for repetitive tasks, like scheduling social media posts or organizing emails. It frees up time for more important activities. Automation can be a game-changer, reducing the time spent on mundane tasks and allowing you to focus on more meaningful work.

Look for opportunities to automate, such as using email filters, setting up automated billing, or employing social media schedulers. By automating routine tasks, you can streamline your workflow and increase overall productivity.

For example, I love Zapier for its automation abilities. Just to give you a few ideas, here are the popular things that people do with it:

Automatically send new leads from Facebook Lead Ads to a CRM like Salesforce or HubSpot.
Post scheduled social media content across multiple platforms using tools like Buffer or Hootsuite.
Sync new email subscribers from Mailchimp or Brevo to a Google Sheets spreadsheet.
Create Trello cards from new Slack messages in a specific channel.
Save new Gmail attachments to Google Drive and notify via Slack.

Mindset and approaches

Your mindset and approach to tasks can significantly impact your productivity. Here are some unique strategies to help you stay focused and efficient:

24. Learn something new

Dedicate time to learning new skills or gaining knowledge. It keeps your mind sharp and can introduce new ways to improve your efficiency. Continuous learning stimulates your brain, fosters creativity, and can lead to innovative solutions to problems.

Whether it’s taking an online course, reading a book, or exploring a new hobby, regularly challenging yourself to learn something new can enhance your productivity by broadening your skill set and keeping you engaged.

25. Limit distractions

Identify your biggest distractions and find ways to minimize them. This might mean turning off notifications on your phone or finding a quiet place to work. Distractions can significantly hinder productivity, so it’s crucial to create a work environment that minimizes interruptions.

Consider using apps that block distracting websites or setting specific times to check emails and messages. By controlling your environment and limiting distractions, you can maintain a higher level of focus and get more done.

26. Learn to say no

It’s okay to decline tasks or meetings that aren’t a priority. Focus on what truly matters to avoid spreading yourself too thin. Saying no can be difficult, but it’s essential for protecting your time and energy.

Assess each request and determine if it aligns with your goals and priorities. Politely declining non-essential tasks allows you to concentrate on the work that has the most significant impact, helping you maintain a more manageable and productive workload.

27. Reflect and adjust

At the end of the day, take a few minutes to reflect on what worked and what didn’t. Adjust your strategies accordingly for the next day. Reflection is a powerful tool for continuous improvement. By evaluating your day, you can identify patterns, recognize achievements, and pinpoint areas for improvement.

This practice helps you make informed adjustments to your approach, ensuring that you consistently optimize your productivity. Regular reflection also promotes self-awareness and a growth mindset, enabling you to adapt and thrive in changing circumstances.

28. Practice mindfulness

Incorporate mindfulness practices like deep breathing or short meditations throughout the day. It helps reduce stress and improve focus. Mindfulness techniques can help you stay present and focused on the task at hand.

By taking a few minutes to practice mindfulness, you can clear your mind of distractions and reduce anxiety, leading to better decision-making and increased productivity.

Regular mindfulness practice can also enhance your overall well-being, making you more resilient to stress.

Don’t wait to make your day productive!

In conclusion, productivity isn’t just about working harder; it’s about working smarter. By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you can make your day productive and get more done with less stress.

Whether it’s through deliberate procrastination, under-scheduling your day, or embracing boredom, these strategies can help you find new ways to tackle your tasks and manage your time.

By experimenting with these tips and finding what works best for you, you can boost your productivity and achieve your goals more effectively.

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