Are you feeling stretched to the limit these days? Are you feeling overwhelmed by the number of tasks on your to-do list? If so, you’re not alone. Getting through a business or work day with minimal stress and fatigue is something most of us long for.
Many small to medium-sized businesses and large organizations are operating on a compressed schedule – which can lead to feelings of stress and tension among their employees and even CEOs.
So to help you make things easier at work, we’ve got some tips for getting through the day – and getting the most out of every hour that you’re working. So whether you’re looking to improve your productivity or just get through a long day unscathed, read on!
How Long is a Business Day?
According to Investopedia, the average business day starts at 9 am and ends at 5 pm, which means it is 8 hours long.
However, there are instances when employees may need to pull overtime, especially when the workload gets out of hand or there’s a special, time-sensitive project you’re assigned.
So, as long as you are aware of the business schedule and plan your day accordingly, you’ll be in good shape.
7 Tips for Getting Through a Long Day at Work
Get Organized
Trying to get through a long day at work can be tough when everything is chaotic, and your desk is full of unnecessary items. To get through the day efficiently, it is important to find a spot where you can focus and work uninterrupted.
This might mean clearing out your desk or getting rid of any clutter that may break your focus or make it difficult to work on your computer. By getting organized, you’ll be able to tackle the day with more ease and less stress.
Take Breaks and Refreshments During the Day
It can be tough going to work every day, but it’s worth it if you’re able to achieve your goals. To get the most out of your work day, make sure to take regular breaks and refreshments during the day. This will help you take a break from the office environment, relax your mind and body, and allow you to focus on your work again with renewed vigor.
Make sure to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day for optimal performance. You can also eat light snacks to keep your energy up and avoid feeling famished in the middle of the day.
Create a Routine and Stick to It
If you want to get through a long day at work without feeling stressed out or frazzled, create a daily routine and stick to it. Planning your day in advance will help you to stay organized.
You’ll know exactly what you need to do, so you won’t have to waste time and energy figuring out your next steps while in the office. This will allow you to stay focused and get more work done!
Get a Good Night’s Sleep
When you start your day at the office, the last thing that you want is to be struggling with fatigue. This is especially true if you have a long day ahead of you, filled with tedious tasks and busy hours. One of the best ways to tackle office fatigue and get through your day successfully is by getting enough sleep – at least 7 hours of shut-eye is recommended.
Make sure your room has dim light, the temperature is comfortable, and there are no screens nearby at least an hour before bedtime so that you can relax and fall asleep easily.
A good night’s sleep will not only make your day go smoother; it will also improve your overall mood and wellbeing.
Stay Focused – Don’t Let Distractions Get the Best of You
Working long hours can be tiring and frustrating, but it’s important not to let distractions get the best of you. Set boundaries with colleagues by refusing to take frequent breaks without any solid reason. This also includes unnecessary gossip by the water cooler.
Furthermore, try using productivity apps to block out social media and other notifications for work-related tasks at certain times of the day. This way, you can focus on what is important without being distracted by irrelevant things that can suck the energy out of you.
Harness the Power of Caffeine – in Moderation
Working long hours can be tiring, and caffeine can help you stay awake and focused during the day. However, too much caffeine can have negative effects on your health, so it is important to use it in moderation.
Aim to drink no more than 400mg of caffeine per day – the equivalent of 4-5 cups of coffee. It is also a good idea to avoid sugary drinks and high-calorie foods when trying to stay awake during the day. These only add to your fatigue.
In addition to watching your caffeine intake, make sure to take regular breaks throughout the day. This is so you don’t get too tired and cranky.
Use the Pomodoro Technique
When it comes to staying productive at work, the Pomodoro Technique is a great way to go. This simple technique involves breaking up your work into 25-minute chunks and rewarding yourself after each one.
This will help you stay motivated and focused throughout the day. Keeping a timer by your desk will help you track your progress and stay on track.
Tips on Avoiding Mental Fatigue
Mental fatigue is a common problem, and it’s easy to become overwhelmed. The good news? You can take steps to avoid it.
- The first step is recognizing that you may be feeling mentally drained. If you do, take some time for yourself to relax and rejuvenate. This might mean taking a break from work, walking, or listening to calming music.
- Next, make sure you’re resting enough – eight hours is the recommended amount. This helps you restore energy and focus and avoids mental fatigue.
- Lastly, make sure you have a productive, clutter-free work environment with bright colors, spacey lighting, and comfortable furniture. This will help you to feel relaxed and focused.
Parting Thoughts:
Getting through a business day can be a Herculean task, but it’s not impossible. You can make the most out of every minute by following a few simple tips mentioned above.
Just make sure to take breaks and eat a healthy meal beforehand to give your body the energy it needs. And if you find yourself feeling mentally exhausted, try taking a short break to regain your energy levels.
