The office. No matter what industry you’re in, it’s a place where work gets done. A business is only as successful as its most productive employees, but what makes you, as an employee, productive? You might feel like a good night’s sleep, a morning workout, and a well-balanced breakfast are all you need to tackle your day-to-day tasks at the office. While important, these aren’t the only things you need to make each and every day a success. Discover the best ways to increase your productivity and make he most of your time at work.

• Track your time. Managing your time is one of the best ways to increase your productivity in the workplace. Often, though, the time we think we’re spending on a project ends up being exponentially longer than the time we estimated. To manage your time accurately, it’s best to use a tracker (you can find them for free online or use your smart phone). Avoid multi-tasking as often as you can, as this is detrimental to productivity. Instead, commit your brain to one task at a time. You’ll have more will to finish it and reduce the risk of having to go back and revise your work.
• Take breaks. In all that time you’re managing, it’s important to schedule breaks for yourself. Working straight through your day without taking a break can lower your overall productivity, leaving you feeling drained and irritable at the end of the day. Taking small, 5-minute breaks between tasks can actually reinforce your drive, allowing you to finish your tasks.
• Inspire yourself. An orderly, personalized office space can increase productivity up to 15%. Even the smallest details, like framed family photos, succulents, and candles. Essentially, decorate with anything that will put a smile on your face when you walk into work. Commercial cleaning should be taken care of on behalf of the company, but it’s on you to maintain the cleanliness (and pleasantness) of your own workspace.
• Minimize interruption. Social media provides us with a great way to stay in touch with friends and family, but it’s a productivity killer in the workplace. To avoid temptations, you can use web browser blockers that prevent you from accessing these websites. In addition, turn off your notifications so that you’re not tempted to see what your friend posted recently. To avoid in-person distractions, shut your door every now and again to create patterns in productivity. This will signify that you’re busy to coworkers and minimize the amount of time your attention is detracted from the task at hand.

Make the most of your time with these productivity-inducing tips. The more productive you are in the workplace, the greater your chances of career success, whether that’s a raise, a promotion, or simply personal satisfaction!