You’re determined to make this the best year for your career yet. Your motivation is running strong, but when it comes to actually making this happen, you’re a little stuck.
I get it—changing your habits is hard and overwhelming. But here’s the good news: you can start small. Below, we’re breaking down nine different work hacks you can implement this year.
Whether you want to save yourself time and frustration or do a better job of focusing on what really matters, these tips are easy to implement and will get you one step closer to making this the year that you actually take your work life up a notch.
1. Take regular breaks with the Pomodoro Technique
Are you the type of person who sits at your desk for hours without realizing how much time is passing? Or, maybe you’re the type who finds yourself getting distracted every few minutes.
Either way, the Pomodoro Technique can be helpful. This time management approach requires that you split your workday into smaller, more manageable chunks (called pomodoros) and use a timer to track them. You’ll work for a stretch of 25 minutes and then take a five-minute break. After completing four pomodoros, you reward yourself with a longer break of about 20 minutes.
What does this do for you? It boosts your focus by instilling a sense of urgency, because you’ll naturally want to get as much work accomplished in that 25-minute chunk as you can. Plus, it ensures that you get up from your desk every now and then, which is important for your brain and your body!
