When we’re trying to focus on a task it’s all too easy to let ourselves get distracted. We’re all guilty of procrastinating and allowing ourselves to take a peek at our Facebook feeds, which then turns into a half-hour of wasted time. But it’s time to make a change, and we’re here to help.
We’ve partnered up with Ryman to put together a quick list of easy ways to transform your workspace into an environment where you can get down to business without distractions.
With these handy tips, you can give your office a mini makeover at fantastic value for money with our top Ryman offers and voucher codes. Find everything you need to boost your productivity and make your office a place you love to be with these simple tips.
Plus, for every purchase you make using one of our amazing Ryman deals, you’ll be donating to the Stroke Association in honour of Make May Purple. Read on to find out more about how your free donations will help, not to mention how to win a £50 Ryman gift voucher to start getting organised in style.
Create a “work zone”
First things first – the desk. One of the best ways to encourage productivity is to create a space dedicated to work where you feel comfortable and focused.
Rather than working on the sofa or at the kitchen table, get yourself a stylish and practical desk where you can really settle in and work. Dedicate the whole area to work and your brain will find it easier to concentrate – then, when it’s time to take a break, head to your ‘chill out’ zone, on the sofa or wherever you feel most relaxed so your mind knows it’s time to switch off.
Remember, you’ll be sat at this desk for a long time almost every day, so it’s well worth investing in furniture and decor which will make you feel calm, creative and comfortable.
Get a desk which suits the space you’re working with (not too big, not too small) and a chair that provides good back support so you’re not aching at the end of the day. After all, if you’re not comfortable and don’t have the space to work, how are you going to get anything done?
Savoo’s top picks:
Kuber Oak Effect and White Desk with Cube Storage – £59.99 (save £10)
Grantham Mesh Fabric Manager Chair – £59.99 (save £140)
Fellowes Professional Series Mesh Back Support – £47.99
Tidy desk, tidy mind
It’s hard enough to stay focused without being surrounded by clutter. If you knock over a stray file or cold cup of coffee every time you pick up the phone, you’re not going to get very far.
Boost your productivity by keeping your area tidy and organised in a way that suits you. You don’t need to spend a lot to find great storage solutions at Ryman. Invest in storage boxes and drawers so that everything has its own proper place.
That means a place for pens, separate folders for separate projects, magazine holders for files and pots for stationery. Avoid any panicky fumbling around looking for a pen, file or a sticky note when you’re on the phone or in a hurry because you know exactly where everything is.
If your desk isn’t big enough, get a simple bookshelf to store files and business books. Tidy as you go and at the end of each day to keep it under control – this will mean when you come back to your desk you’ll feel immediately focused rather than overwhelmed at the very prospect of sitting down and getting started.
Savoo’s top picks:
Ryman Really Useful Storage Drawer Unit – £9.99
Dannington 9 Cube Shelving Unit -£49.99
Osco Mesh Desk Organiser – £13.99
Create achievable to-do lists
Stay on target by making to-do lists each day with some simple, achievable tasks as well as more long term goals. Get yourself a notebook and make it your constant companion, so if you’re ever struck by inspiration you can scribble down your thoughts.
Each morning write down what you want to get done in your notebook and tick them off as you go. This will keep you feeling motivated by showing you what you’ve gotten done, even on days where it feels like you haven’t made much headway. Check out Ryman’s fab range of personalised notebooks which will keep you organised and on top of your tasks while showing off a little of your personality.
It’s also well worth getting a whiteboard or similar to keep track of bigger goals. Write your main goals for the week, month or year, whether that’s to gain at least 10 more clients or create a new brand logo. Then make notes on the whiteboard as you go to show the steps you’ve made to reach your goal. This will make your targets feel more manageable and will keep you focused on what you’re working towards.
Make sure you give yourself a half hour at the end of the day to review what you’ve done and update your to-do list so you’re ready for tomorrow.
Savoo’s top picks:
Ryman Personalised Notebook – £14.99
Dry wipe board with pen – £7.99
Start using the bullet journal method
Give your organisation system a makeover along with your workspace. Bullet journaling is an elegant, minimalist organisation method which has taken the world by storm. Its a quicker and more efficient way to make notes which keeps you on track and looks satisfyingly neat.
Bullet journaling helps you stay organised in a whole new way, showing everything you need to remember in a simple and concise way, as well as encouraging creativity and motivating you to get things done. It’s cheap and easy – all you need is a pen and a bullet journal, which is just like a classic notebook except it has dotted pages to help you keep your journal looking clean and sleek.
People bullet journal in lots of different ways – some find it more engaging to use lots of colour, whereas others do it to help them create a more systematic approach to their tasks and schedule. Use bullet journalling to keep track of what you’ve done, organise what you’re doing now and plan for a future in a way that makes sense for you.
Thankfully, you can get Ryder Carroll’s guide to the bullet journal method from Ryman, along with a simple bullet journal to start you off. Once you get into the swing of it, bullet journaling will help you stay organised and on top of your workload in a whole new ingenious way.
Savoo’s top picks:
Forbes Classic Hardcover Bullet Journal – £12.95
The Bullet Journal Method by Ryder Carroll – £16.99
Keep on track with your yearly plan and weekly achievements
Your workspace isn’t confined to just your desk. Add to the walls with a visual summary of your year with a handy yearly calendar. This yearly calendar only costs £4.99 and will massively help you plan in advance for things like holidays, targets and meetings.
Use coloured stickers to give you a quick and colourful way to add to your calendar and stop it looking too cluttered, and keep track of where you are in the year with a quick glance.
You can also invest in a fun weekly calendar to add more casual, last-minute notes and plans. This stylish origami planner lets you make simple notes of your week so, along with your to-do list, you’ll know exactly what you’ve achieved and what you need to focus on next week.
Savoo’s top picks:
Ryman Wall Planner – £4.99
Ryman Self Adhesive Dots – £1.69<
Mustard Origami Weekly Planner – £7.99
Colour code everything
Speaking of coloured stickers, did you know that incorporating colour into the way you work can help improve your memory? Plus it helps to make your workspace a more engaging and pleasing sight at the start of the day, so break the black biro routine and add some brighter shades into your day to day grind.
There are loads of ways that colour can help keep you organised. Put urgent tasks in a red folder and completed ones in a green folder. Highlight your notes to show important quotes and stats versus important dates or urgent info you need to remember.
Write in different colours depending on the task you’re doing to break up big bits of text so you can find exactly what you need fast when you look back at your notes.
Whether you’re keeping track of your business or revising for exams, colour is always a great way to stay on track. Ryman has plenty of vibrant coloured pens, pastel highlighters, coloured sticky notes and bright folders to help you add a pop of colour to your workspace.
Savoo’s top picks:
Stabilo Point 88 Fineliners – £10.99
Stabilo Boss Pastel Highlighters – £7.99 (Save £7.99)
Europa 13 Pocket Expanding File – £9.99
Post-it Super Sticky Waterfall Miami and Rio de Janeiro – £7.49 (Save 7.49)
Stay hydrated
It may sound simple, but a bottle of water is an essential accessory for your workspace along with your notebook and laptop. We can’t focus or function without staying hydrated, so make sure you’re taking regular sips of water throughout the day to keep your brain working at its best. Keep this stunning rose gold bottle at your side at all times to make sure you stay hydrated and productive.
It’s also a good idea to limit your coffee intake and balance it with water. Although the caffeine in coffee gives us a great initial boost of concentration and helps us to wake up, when you have a caffeine crash later on it’s hard to keep your momentum going. Plus, too much can make you jittery, which will actually make you less productive.
Don’t worry though, we wouldn’t expect you to stop drinking coffee altogether. It’s a great way to start the day and give you the boost you need to get going, and is especially appealing in this Ryman Eco Chic, environmentally friendly and super cute travel mug.
Savoo’s top picks:
B and Co Stainless Steel Rose Gold Thermal Bottle – £9.99
Eco Chic Bamboo Travel Mug – £9.99
Stay motivated with visual reminders of what matters
Get rid of the things that stress you out at your desk, like that irritating ticking clock, and replace it with something you find relaxing or inspiring.
Whatever you’re doing at your desk, you’re doing it for a reason. Maybe you’re growing your own business to support your family. Or perhaps what keeps you going is that trip to Bali you’ve always wanted.
Whatever motivates you, put images of it on your desk or walls so that if you feel like you’re losing steam you’ll have a reminder of what you’re working towards to give yourself a second wind. It’s far easier to keep going when you’re surrounded by the smiling faces of your loved ones, an inspirational quote or a beautiful view you want to visit one day.
Take a look at the great range of Ryman frames to add some motivational images to your work setup. Hanging up pictures is a doddle with handy picture hanging strips, so you can add motivational pictures in a flash to keep you going.
Savoo’s top picks:
Innova Easy A4 Frame – £4.99
Innova Madeira VI MDF Frame – £29.99
Command Picture Hanging Strips (Large) – £4.49
If you don’t need it, shred it
Although there’s a temptation to keep hold of all our documents, it’s not particularly helpful for productivity. Chances are you won’t need those notes from five years ago, and they’re not doing you any good cluttering up your workspace.
Plus, what’s the point of having it if you’ll have to search for an age to find it? It’s much better to be honest about what you really need and put the rest through the shredder.
If you do have documents you’re uncomfortable with getting rid of but don’t need day to day, then why not get a great value all-in-one printer to scan them into your PC. Then, if you ever need it, you know exactly where it is and it won’t be gathering dust and cluttering your desk.
Savoo’s top picks:
Ryman 5 Sheet Cross Cut Shredder – £24.99
Canon PIXMA All in One Printer – £19.00
Keep your wires tidy
And it’s not just paper documents that need to be kept neat and tidy. A clutter of endless tangled wires is a sure way to cause frustration and distractions. Thankfully, there’s a cheap and easy fix.
Use simple binder clips to keep wires organised and stop them from tangling. Then why not use some colourful index tabs to label each wire so you know what’s what. No more accidentally unplugging your PC rather than your phone charger!
Savoo’s top picks:
3M Post It File Index Tabs – £5.99
Q-Connect Fold Back Clip 42mm Pack of 10 – £1.79
Add some fun
Finally, make sure you add some fun to your office. After all, all work and no play is never the way to go in the long term. You want your workspace to be somewhere that reflects your personality and makes you feel creative, so make it a positive, fun environment wherever you can.
Indulge in a few novelties to make your everyday grind a little lighter and a little more fun. How about these unique origami sticky notes for some original little reminders? Write down your achievements on Ryman’s neon, colour-changing board to let out some of your creativity, or manage your stress with these cheeky squidgy critters. Ryman has even made paperclips fun with the magnetic unicorn paperclip holder. Add a little whimsy to your day to create a unique workspace you feel happy to be in.
Savoo’s top picks:
Origami Sticky Notes Pad – £2.99
Mayhem Neon Colour Changing Message Board with Pens – £12.99
Squidgy Long Tongue Creature Sensory Toy – £1
Unicorn Magnetic Paperclip Holder – £6.99
Raise money for Stroke Association while getting the best deal on your office essentials
Tick doing your bit for charity off your to-do list, because for every time you use one of our fantastic Ryman deals this May, you’ll be raising even more money for the Stroke Association. This is in honour of Make May Purple, the Stroke Association’s annual stroke awareness month running throughout May.
Stroke strikes every five minutes in the UK. Its effects can be devastating and life-changing. Make May Purple helps to fund specialist support, critical research and campaigning to make sure the 1.2 million stroke survivors in the UK get the very best care.
So whether you want to shake up the way you work or start fresh with a whole new office, do it with Ryman’s great value office essentials and give to a cause that matters for free. From the 1st to the 31st of May, you’ll find amazing voucher codes to help you get money off your Ryman order while also donating up to 7% of all Ryman orders to the Stroke Association. These donations won’t cost you an extra penny, so you can donate to a cause which matters while saving yourself money on your office makeover.
Find out more about how it works and get started today by turning your office into a stylish, productive place for you to achieve your goals while helping the Stroke Association rebuild the lives of more people affected by strokes.
Win a £50 Ryman Gift Voucher
Ryman is offering one lucky winner a £50 gift voucher to get you started on your dream office makeover. To enter, simply comment on this blog post telling us how you keep yourself motivated at work. The competition will run from the 8th until the 15th May at 23:59.
Stay on track and achieve your goals in an environment you feel inspired, motivated and productive with these fab Ryman goodies. Best of luck with the competition!
This post was written and created by Savoo in return for a £50 Ryman gift voucher.
Terms and Conditions
- The competition is not linked to Facebook and is not sponsored, supported or organised in any way by Facebook.
- Every participant who comments on this blog post automatically agrees to these terms and conditions.
- The competition ends on Wednesday 15th May 2019 at 23.59. The automatic determination of the winner takes place on the following day.
- The winner will be contacted on Facebook by Savoo, and has one week to respond with their contact details
- One person wins a £50 Ryman voucher, valid for 24 months from the date of issue. Then the voucher loses validity and can no longer be redeemed.
- The winner is responsible for paying any additional costs.
- The entrant(s) must be aged 18 or over
- Proof of identity and age may be required
- No responsibility can be accepted for entries lost, delayed or corrupted, or due to computer error in transit.
- The prizes are as stated, are not transferable to another individual and no cash or other alternatives will be offered. Also the winner will not be able to receive a cash refund for any amount unspent.
- Prizes are subject the prize supplier’s terms and conditions.
- In no case can a cash payment of the voucher be made.
- The participants’ data will not be passed on to third parties and will only be used for the processing of the competition.
Justin Swainson
5 years ago
Its important to have a cup for work, Having a brew in the morning is important to start the day fresh!
Isabell Whitenstall
5 years ago
I tell myself, the job has to be done, the sooner I start the sooner I will finish. Sometimes it works!
Maureen Quinnell
5 years ago
I stay motivated by breaking down the day into sections working on different areas and then breaking it up with regular coffee ☕
Elaine Fitzpatrick
5 years ago
Once I sit to down to work I use the Pomodoro timer method. This is something you can download to your PC or simply use your mobile. It allocates a 25 minute time slot in which you solely concentrate on the task in hand- no getting side tracked by social media etc. When the timer goes off after 25 minutes you can take a short break. Then restart. I’ve recently been introduced to it and find it really helpful
Hannah Igoe
5 years ago
Being organised is really key to staying motivated and giving yourself a realistic target for the day that’s achievable. When you over set the goals it can have the wrong effect so know your own limits.
Peter Watson
5 years ago
I just remind myself how much money I’m earning.
janine atkin
5 years ago
i write lists and feel like im achieving something when i tick items off
Clare Woodman
5 years ago
I love notice boards – all important dates and times get written on there. Stops me forgetting!
Megan Williams
5 years ago
I keep myself motivated with cute stationery and with the occasional treat when I achieve important things!
Amber Baxter
5 years ago
Being self employed you have to really focus on being organised and my children are my motivation to do well x
Stewart Smith-Langridge
5 years ago
Having a life outside work is a key motivator during work, especially when you have a grandchild to play with
Catherine McAlinden
5 years ago
I play upbeat music to sing along to. It cheers me up, and makes the day go faster!
Lynn Evans
5 years ago
I feel more motivated with funky accessories around me. I bring a little bit of me to work to liven up my desk and show my personality!
Craig Rogers
5 years ago
I work from home most of the time, so keeping yourself motivated is even more important. I start early, maintain many prioritised lists and take breaks for mindfulness exercises to de-stress and keep me alert.
Carolyn E
5 years ago
I set myself one task target per time frame. Once I have achieved it, I walk around smiling at people and grab a coffe ready for the next task.
Lynette D
5 years ago
Having good music on makes my productivity go up. As I work from home, self motivation is very important. Unhindered access to the kettle and no attention seeking moggies getting in the way also helps although the latter cannot always be guaranteed!
Amy SIMPSON
5 years ago
I Have a big colourful wall planner,and i make sure i take a walk round office,when feeling fatigued x
Leanne Skelton
5 years ago
Being organised is how I keep myself focused and motivated . I use lots of fun stationery to cheer me up – especially colourful post it notes !
allan evans
5 years ago
I never sit down at my desk,and always have the radio on
Mary Heald
5 years ago
I break my day down into small chunks, promising myself a treat at the end (coffee break, biscuit, fresh air) and work towards that goal.
Darrell Perry
5 years ago
I enjoy my job and motivation comes naturally. I have a great boss. The money’s not fantastic, but hey you can’t have everything 🙂
Lucy
5 years ago
I always have to-do lists so that I can cross things off when I’ve finished them and that helps motivate me 🙂
Leelee Newsome
5 years ago
I write lists and notes to keep me motivated
Mellissa
5 years ago
My gorgeous pink slightly sparkly notebook, nice pens rather than ball pens keep me motivated believe it or not. Seeing it displayed nicely in a pen pot holder for work helps. Also a cup of warm tea for the start of the day and my amazing organisational skills of course.
Lucy Barlow
5 years ago
My work is split onto two parts – performing, and the business behind the scenes.
When I’m singing, I am in my element and need no motivation – it’s a joy.
The behind the scenes stuff is so much harder – rehearsals, practicing, chasing work, self promotion (the worst!!!) – the only thing I can think about to keep going is that it will get me to my goal quicker – to be living debt free with my man!
Victoria
5 years ago
Make a list each morning of jobs which are a priority and set yourself a chunk of time to get through those fist. You will feel more motivated to get through other jobs once you know all the critical stuff is taken care of.
Stephen Cova
5 years ago
Several cups of coffee and the realisation that what I’m doing is helping people
Robyn S
5 years ago
I give myself set break times, like you would have in an office. That way I know how long I’ve got to concentrate for and don’t let myself get distracted or go off on a tangent!
Karen Latif
5 years ago
Writing lists and having everything you need to hand
iain maciver
5 years ago
just by enjoying what I do
sarah grainger
5 years ago
reminding myself that it is for the benefit of my families future, and to make my children proud
GLENDA PROFIT
5 years ago
I arrive early, get my coffee and make sure I have everything in it’s place ready to go – unrushed and in control
Amanda McCormack
5 years ago
I give myself reward goals – a tea break or some chocolate (depending on the work I’m doing) for every stage completed!
Fiona Timms
5 years ago
I make five year plans and concentrate on those
Mo
5 years ago
I stay motivated by starting the day off with a nice cup of strong coffee and then having a warm, hearty meal at lunch time.
Laura Chapman
5 years ago
I keep myself motivated by setting goals and writing lists, taking breaks every hour, drinking plenty of water and keeping my personal phone in my bag so I don’t get distracted.
Rebecca Brown
5 years ago
I break everything down into small goals and make sure I get mini rewards when I reach them
Paul Jenkins
5 years ago
I recommend that you put the radio on as it makes work that little bit more fun with the passing of time quicker 😉
Julie Winward
5 years ago
I find making notes and prioritise tasks helps me to stay focused
Peter Ogg
5 years ago
Keep watching the clock ! It will soon be home time lol
Claire woods
5 years ago
Have a list of tasks for the day and if I get through them I get a cup of tea!
Tina Woollard
5 years ago
Never clock watch; the day will fly by, as you’d have been busy enough to keep you going! ☺
Katie
5 years ago
lots of tea and continuous snacking!
Christine Caple
5 years ago
Making a to do list and ticking off as I do things keeps me motivated.
Tamsin Pritchard
5 years ago
I’m a university student and I find that writing to-do lists helps me to stay motivated! I write a to-do list on a post it note of what I want to achieve by the end of the week. If I have crossed everything off my to-do list by Sunday evening I reward myself, either with a treat (chocolate is my weakness!!) or with a few hours off from studying to watch TV!
K
5 years ago
Colour and cute stationary keeps me motivated
Valerie Seal
5 years ago
I’m retired but entering for my daughter who is a teaching assistant and always needing stationery. It’s her who keeps me motivated so I’d like to give something back!
Rachel B
5 years ago
by having regular breaks- whether thats for a brew, snack or quick walk it helps keep me fresh and reasonably engaged
SANDRA MURRAY
5 years ago
Tea, more Tea and Stationery 🙂
Sheena Batey
5 years ago
By allowing myself regular breaks
Kay Roberson
5 years ago
I don’t seem to need motivating. I just like doing my work.
Deborah Mackenzie
5 years ago
I set goals to achieve, plus also need a neat and tidy workspace that is very organised to stay on top of everything.
Hazel Rea
5 years ago
I do voluntary work for a charity at home – when engaged on that I make sure all social media is off so I don’t get distracted.
Charlotte Clarke
5 years ago
I keep motivated by planning regular breaks throughout the day, I always try to get out of the office at lunchtime and take a walk in the fresh air
Laura glavin
5 years ago
Notebooks with colour coded to do lists with pretty highlighters!!
Jade Goddard
5 years ago
Writing lists.
Vicki Francis
5 years ago
Organising my work load
Aci
5 years ago
Keep motivated at work by having SMART goals that you can work towards! (look up the acronym SMART if you’ve never heard of it)
Jodie W
5 years ago
I make sure i’m at my desk on time, my fitbit is a great help when it buzzes once an hour to remind me to be active i use this as a toilet or kettle opportunity, small jog on the spot and then back to it for the next hour. The short break helps to keep my mind focussed
Helen
5 years ago
Morning coffee, a cute pen and note book but the essential workplace banter.
Jane Bower
5 years ago
I repainted my work station a soft sage green and positioned my desk where it overlooks a garden area. I chose Monet’s Garden as a theme – curtains, mousemat, screen saver, phone case. I couldn’t find a Monet lampshade so I bought a plain one in a charity shop and painted it. Working in a calming atmosphere is completely different from the cluttered, boxed-in office I had for years.
My second tip is to list jobs in a helpful way – I use two methods. 1. I make two lists – physical (those jobs which require leaving the desk and moving/walking) and cerebral (those that require stillness and concentrated thinking)- and alternate them. 2. I list jobs, and then do them ‘in order of hatred’ as I call it! I.e. the most dreaded and loathed one first. Then the day can only get better!
MARGARET GARROD
5 years ago
Plenty of red bush tea and finding like-minded souls by the water cooler.
Nicola Day
5 years ago
Having a to do list that I can tick items off from.
Pallavi Prasad
5 years ago
I take every hour and day by just that moment. I think of it as a brand new day every day and it makes it easy and more fun 🙂
Audrey Spratt
5 years ago
My job as a paramedic involves helping people who are unwell or injured so I motivate myself by reminding myself that I’m doing something good and my patients rely on me to treat them and reassure them. I also love to keep a stock of nice pens and notebooks in my bag for complete ins paperwork ❤️
Dave Simpson
5 years ago
Positive Mental Attitude
Laura Ireland
5 years ago
I stay motivated with upbeat tunes and mini walks every hour to keep my mind fresh while i’m working.
Emma Wolski
5 years ago
I work at the airport and try and remember how I feel when going on holiday or travelling so that motivates me to be uber helpful. Not always easy at 03oo lol!
Kelly Winley
5 years ago
I like to keep organised. I work with children and it can be difficult to keep on top of their learning journals but find keeping lists and ticking it off as I go really helps.
Nicola Cook
5 years ago
By doing the jobs I least enjoy first means I do not waste time thinking about them and know that the jobs I enjoy are coming up
Lili
5 years ago
I Complete my To-Do-List each evening so I start the next day as organised as I can be. Naturally it usually goes out of the window before lunch time but at least I feel in control and positive at the start of each day.
Susan B
5 years ago
I am very competitive so never have any difficulty keeping going to achieve very good results.
Tamara Wheatley
5 years ago
By doing to do lists and ticking them off…. makes you feel you are making progress!
Lisa Rickard
5 years ago
DOING COMPETITIONS OF COURSE
V Poulston
5 years ago
Listening to the radio make the day go quicker.
Mark Mccaffery
5 years ago
Looking forward to the weekend.
Margaret Mccaffery
5 years ago
By breaking the day down into small manageable chunks.
Mags DIGNAM
5 years ago
I set myself a set time to get as much as possible done and it usually works and if I don’t allow myself to be sidetracked when I’ve finished I get to do something I enjoy…!
Ann Scarborough
5 years ago
I will have a list to work from,and tick each task off as it is completed.Some jobs will go onto the next day’s list,but I can see what I have achieved and this keeps my spirits up.
Sarah Mccaffery
5 years ago
I break up the day with several tea breaks.
AJS40
5 years ago
I break work down into tasks for the day and I love a great notebook too.
Mel Pennie
5 years ago
Organisation is my key to staying motivated at work. They call me the ‘spreadsheet queen’ as this is my way of tracking everything that I need to follow jobs through to their completion and the customers satisfaction.
I also find having great work colleagues that you can have a laugh with a motivating factor!
Elizabeth Cooke
5 years ago
I block out time for tasks (my online calendar I live by). And I also use timers to keep me motivated and on task. Pretty stationery helps too!
Kristie Metcalfe
5 years ago
I stay motivated by not having a cup of tea until I complete a certain portion of the day and doing the tasks I needed to in that time frame. I usually Chuck a snack into the mid as well though!
CHRISTINE DENT
5 years ago
I’ve recently retired, so my motivation is the fun of planning all the things I want to get done which I didn’t have time to before retiring! It’s been great to make a big ‘to do’ list and at last being able to tick things off! I love planners and journals they keep me focused. I alternate tasks with fun things to keep me happy.
Angela Walton
5 years ago
Keep work and personal goals and tasks separate. Otherwise, the personal ones can distract from the work ones.
Karen Stirling
5 years ago
Take a break from my screen every hour – even if it’s just a 2 min walk around the office.
Rachel S
5 years ago
Promise myself a nice coffee from the indy shop round the corner if I get stuff done
Francesca H
5 years ago
By making sure I do the thing I’m dreading most for the day first!!
greig spencer
5 years ago
by setting new goals and targets
Hazy T
5 years ago
I love making lists and then crossing jobs done off the list. Seeing the items on the list getting ticked off keeps me motivated – especially if the list involves highlighters 🙂
James Travis
5 years ago
By breaking work down and take regular breaks from the screen to stay fresh
Linda Ford
5 years ago
I stay motivated at work by working through my list and ticking off everything once it is done!
Rai
5 years ago
Spotify – a bit of music to suit my mood helps when I start to flag. Thanks
Caroline Tinsley
5 years ago
I motivate myself by planning a treat for when I have finished a set number of tasks.
Fay
5 years ago
I don’t keep myself motivated, I just carry on. Having to work & be on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week theres no way I can have any motivation, I am absolutely shattered, lol.
Jodi hill
5 years ago
By writing lists and sticking to a time schedule, I feel like small little goals throughout the day keep me motivated.
I like to organise a few work days out throughout the year so we can all blow off a bit of steam.
betsy ferguson
5 years ago
we have regular staff meetings at a fun location, with prize incentives for our sales staff, and recently had an assault course race, which was fun – this all helps to keep staff motivated, and builds team spirits x
Kelly Knowles
5 years ago
To keep me motivated through out the day, I take a job, give myself a target and if I meet that target I reward myself, it may be a food treat or a little break, then when I move on to the next it feels like a new challenge!
Christine Evans
5 years ago
I like to create a “to do” list, subdivided into very important, important and peripheral tasks, aiming to tick off at least one very important and one important – or two very important, depending on deadlines. It keeps me on track and also gives me a sense of satisfaction
Meg Gaskell
5 years ago
I have to have a list with everything on it, and my motivation comes from ticking things off through the day! I put even small tasks on the list as that helps to feel like you’re making progress as you tick them off.
Jo Hutchings
5 years ago
I keep myself motivated by using to do lists and rewarding myself with regular breaks.
Mandy Betts
5 years ago
Knowing how stressed how I will feel if I don’t complete tasks usually is enough motivation for me
Elzbieta Znyk
5 years ago
I always make a list for the next day, what need to be done.
Elena
5 years ago
I try and see the small victories every day so i don’t loose motivation. Positivity is key, everyone has bad moments at work but I do not let a few minutes spoil my day
Ben Ricci
5 years ago
A steady flow of coffee in the morning, then a gentle fix of herbal tea in the afternoon!
Richard Saunders
5 years ago
By reminding myself that I’m trying to make my community a better place
Carla Mooney
5 years ago
Being organised and making myself a list I find works for me as I can see that I need to do and also what iv done.
jade rice
5 years ago
i stay motivated by having 2 lists things i need to do and things i have done visually allows me to see visually what ive achieved x
Michelle Smith
5 years ago
I take regular breaks and keep on top of my work .
paula cheadle
5 years ago
I always have a move about every hour for 5 mins
Sarah
5 years ago
I am motivated at work because I am fortunate to support some amazing people and have lovely colleagues too. Also coffee helps a lot!
Fiona Foskett
5 years ago
Coffee, Background music but not to loud, A tidy desk and a positive attitude x
Sandra Clarke
5 years ago
I keep my desk tidy & organised as I can’t work in a mess. Regular short breaks & coffee helps.
Sheila Reeves
5 years ago
Keep motivated by breaking the day into sections, and reward myself with a break – just knowing that is coming really helps!
Vivien Taylor
5 years ago
I try and be happy and in the moment, afterall spend so much time at work we need to enjoy it
Ree J
5 years ago
I try to schedule tasks to ensure lots of variety during the day.
Valerie Seal
5 years ago
I keep things simple and don’t take on more than I can manage.
Michael
5 years ago
I challenge myself every day to do better than the day before
elodie ladlow
5 years ago
I write down things I achieved or compliments received in the past to remind me why I do what I do. also post it notes with tasks are a life saver !
Dale Dow
5 years ago
Lists, Lists and More Lists, they set goals for me which motivate me
Laura Winkless
5 years ago
i like to write a ‘to-do’ list in the morning so i know what my focus and priorities are. I do the worst jobs first to get them out of the way. And then i take regular breaks, plenty of coffee in the mornings and then water in the afternoon.
Yvonne Pearson
5 years ago
I’m a teacher – when children “get it” it makes my day – that’s what keeps me motivated.
Anneka Davies
5 years ago
I break my tasks down into smaller sections. Making lists that I’m able to check off as I go, makes me feel like I am accomplishing something and keeps me motivated.
Jane Willis
5 years ago
I bribe myself! It can be very hard not to get distracted when working from home, so I promise myself a treat – maybe half an hour in the garden with a book or a new lipstick – when I’ve completed a certain number of tasks. It never fails to keep me motivated, that carrot dangling on the stick in front of me keeps me heading forwards.
Kristyn Harris
5 years ago
I have a photograph of my family above my desk to keep me motivated!
Louise Jones
5 years ago
I break down tasks into very small parts, and make a list to check off – sometimes on an app, sometimes by hand.
Lynn Neal
5 years ago
I like to be surrounded by colourful and interesting things and to be able to look out of a window to give my eyes a break from the screen!
David Pithie
5 years ago
I cross off the days on the calendar to my next holiday
Peter B
5 years ago
I start my day with a prayer; and remember how fortunate I am and what I want to achieve.
Carole Nott
5 years ago
It is essential to work in a tidy manner and to complete “to do” lists
Linda spevick
5 years ago
I tell myself to do the best I can because that is what I will be judged upon.
Naomi Buchan
5 years ago
The Mantra of sooner started, sooner completed help. And copious amounts of coffee.
Nicola Dow
5 years ago
Coffee and lots of it.
Michelle Bruce
5 years ago
Goals & Rewards are very positive ways to stay motivated.
Victoria Prince
5 years ago
I keep myself motivated by making a list of everything I have to do, however small, and then ticking them off – nothing motivates like seeing progress! I also reward myself every few tasks with a cup of tea or a treat
Amanda Gregory
5 years ago
I am lucky that I have a lot of really fabulous people that work with me so that tends to be all the motivation I need.
Geoffroy Thomas
5 years ago
I just keep thinking of the pay cheque at the end of the month
David Adkin
5 years ago
I always tackle the difficult or disliked jobs first and then I can look forward to those that I like.
David Paynter
5 years ago
Have a break every hour. In the long term, it’s more productive.
Erica Hughes
5 years ago
Ticking stuff off the to do list
Caroline Shepherd
5 years ago
Eat the frog! Get the worst task out of the way first so it isn’t hanging over your whole day.
Lisa Bailey
5 years ago
By having fun, especially choosing all the fun little things like stationery. Makes me smile and I enjoy using it, so keeps me working 🙂
Lorna Ledger
5 years ago
Truthfully, I remember why I am there, my family need me to go, it keeps a roof over our head, and is just the right thing to do morally!
Lyndsey Bruce
5 years ago
For me the key is being organised and allocating time to each task.
Ena Dutton
5 years ago
Having a lovely frothy latte before sitting in a comfy chair at a well organised desk keeps me happy and motivated.
Maria Fernandez
5 years ago
I stay motivated by visualising the glass of white I’ll have when I get home!
Phil Boyle
5 years ago
Have daily , weekly and monthly goals. motivates me. Also working for a charity that gives homeless people an opportunity to get their lives back on track feels like you’re on a mission every day helps.
Laura Pritchard
5 years ago
I love a good tick list – ticking off work items keeps me motivated!
Ellen Stafford
5 years ago
I write lists and tick things off as I have done them so I know I have achieved. I also love listening to music lol
Duncan Campbell
5 years ago
Thinking of my next snazzy stationery project from all the goodies at Ryman!
Robyn Clarke
5 years ago
Nice stationery and I make sure I take regular breaks.
Joanne smith
5 years ago
I look at the pictures of my family on my desk and that motivates me to earn some pennies
Dawn
5 years ago
When you take pride in your work the motivation comes naturally because you always want to do your best. Cake is also a great help to get you through the day!
Tracy Hanson
5 years ago
I started prioritising. I have a list and colour code the jobs. URGENT is red and then goes down to CAN BE DONE WHEN EVERYTHING ELSE IS FINISHED – which is white. Has helped me a lot and made work a lot easier and more enjoyable.
David Edwards
5 years ago
Proper coffee and the occasional Krispy Kreme…
Carys Owen
5 years ago
To keep myself focused on a difficult task, I set a timer.
Then I spend an equal amount of time on a more enjoyable task.
Jacqui ruddy
5 years ago
I think of how strong my mum Enid was in her battle with cancer. She never complained and fought for 5 years. I am motivated and inspired by her attitude to not waste a second
Nathalie Taylor
5 years ago
I write lists of all the things I would like to get done which motivates me to get it all done. I don’t like to see anything not crossed off.
Sue gwynne
5 years ago
Has to be to-do lists
Ann Calland
5 years ago
Planning and then putting things straight away into action.
Marie Rungapadiachy
5 years ago
I concentrate on all of the successes to keep myself on track.
Deborah Clarke
5 years ago
coffee !!! Coffee keeps me motivated. Can’t function without my coffee .
Pauline Dring
5 years ago
How I keep motivated at work – to be honest, I have so much to do in so little time that as soon as I’m in the building and grabbed a cup of tea, the day just goes by.
Beryl Drake
5 years ago
I stay motivated by talking to my customer s , working in a happy and fun environment, and keeping fit and well
Amandine Thomas-Bigattin
5 years ago
I keep myself motivated by having a tidy desk, a good plan for the day and knowing I’ll go home at lunch time to walk my puppy 🙂
Sophie Foulds
5 years ago
Regular walks throughout the day to keep myself awake and motivated!
Becki Johnson
5 years ago
I love having a daily to do list with a simple checklist at the side, so I can mark tasks off when they’re completed and I feel organised!
Eloise W
5 years ago
I make sure to always get away from the desk for my full lunch. The fresh air and break in the day makes it go faster!
Kate Loader
5 years ago
The people I work with keeps me motivated
Ruth Wollerton
5 years ago
By funky bits on my desk and surrounding myself with great colleagues
Anna Brown
5 years ago
I write down my goals and the steps needed to get there. I will then reward myself at each step which is a great incentive to keep motivated
Angela Kelly
5 years ago
I work in a school in a deprived area. My motivation is that everything I do at work is for the benefit of some pretty great young people. (Nice stationery helps as well!)
Amy Stevens
5 years ago
I have a daily, weekly and monthly to do lists.
Also reward myself with a nice cuppa and a biscuit.
Romana Richards
5 years ago
I also colour code everything. Have done for as long as I can remember at primary, secondary schools, college, teaching and now to keep my affairs in order when retired. It keeps my mind uncluttered and I am more efficient leaving more free time in my busy life.
Caroline
5 years ago
I make lists of everything I need to do, marking things off as I complete them keeps me motivated!
Megan
5 years ago
I stay motivated by having good relationships with my colleagues. I wouldn’t make it through the day otherwise. Oh, and caffeine.
Carly Belsey
5 years ago
I get to work early and pour myself a coffee and then it’s down to business. I use lots of highlighters and sticky notes to help me organise my work properly. Fab giveaway
Simone Griffin
5 years ago
Work motivation can be so hard – I am lucky that I am surrounded by great people who I can bounce my ideas and stresses off – I think that is really important to a healthy work life x
chloe brill
5 years ago
start a fresh forget about things that cant be changed
Derek Wilson
5 years ago
I imagine the trouble I’ll be in with my boss if I don’t hit my target. That motivates me!
Caroline Smith
5 years ago
Having some banter with your colleagues definitely helps with motivation 🙂
Anthea Holloway
5 years ago
I keep myself motivated at work by really enjoying my job and knowing that everything I do will in some small way help someone.
Jeanette Leighton
5 years ago
By thinking of my family , children who matter and why I do it
Harvey Salmon
5 years ago
I break the day down into small goals to be achieved in order of priority. There is something encouraging about achieving each staging post before the final destination is reached.
CAROL PATRICK
5 years ago
I keep motivated by organising my workload and keeping reminders of jobs to do in order of priority.
Sheena Read
5 years ago
My job is never ending but I concentrate on one at a time and the time soon passes.
Emma Bradshaw
5 years ago
I stay organised with a weekly planner and plenty of lists!
Anita
5 years ago
I try to keep myself completely busy!
Even if I have done my job I help others! Helps the time to go a lot faster!
Lisa Sweeney
5 years ago
I blast a bit of Dolly P when I need a lift – 9-5 does it every time!
Zoey H
5 years ago
Each day I set myself goals for the day, then review against the week. This helps me to stay focused of what my priorities are. I walk mid morning round our building with work colleagues and 30min walkway lunch helps me through my day.
Fiona jk42
5 years ago
I use a set of notebooks for different types of projects or activities, plus a journal to track what I have actually done during each day.
Maria hackett
5 years ago
Since had kids i suffered from Postnatal Depression and my job helped me to get through it. I’m always grateful i have a job and friends, That’s good for you financially and mentally.
Adrian Bold
5 years ago
I stay motivated by setting myself goals and task time lines, then rewarding myself with a break or treat when it’s done.
Stephanie
5 years ago
Awesome
jackie beckett
5 years ago
I get a cup of coffee then get on working methodically and hopefully finish faster
Kim W
5 years ago
I wake up with a cup of coffee and that starts my day off fine.
Michael Lavender
5 years ago
By making sure I get some fresh air! Give myself time to think also!
Karen Howden
5 years ago
I couldn’t do it, I’ve had to leave and take early retirement
Joyce Willis
5 years ago
When you work for the NHS the motivation is that there is a patient at the end of every thing you do – say no more!
Danielle Graves
5 years ago
I think pretty stationery really helps as it makes me feel like my work is more attractive too. I also have rainbow coloured really useful (that’s the name) drawers which I love for being organised.
Lots of natural light is a must!
And music helps me get stuff done
Monika Bascombe
5 years ago
I plan what i need to to each day , I dont need any other motivators than knowledge I did what was required ,
Kelly Hirst
5 years ago
I Keep myself motivated by laughing with my work colleagues and always making sure I take a lunch break
Tara Bush
5 years ago
I write a lot of lists:- daily, weekly, monthly, bi-yearly and yearly. And I colour-code depending on the importance of the task.
Charlie Brunton
5 years ago
instead of bombarding myself first thing with a huge ‘to-do’ list, i find it really motivating to list tasks as i complete them! it sounds backwards but looking back on what i’ve already done spurs me on to do more, so that i’ve got a lovely long list of things to be proud of that day!
Adam Dix
5 years ago
Breaking the day up into sections and allocating tasks for each section keeps me motivated as I know exactly what I need to get done & the time frame I’ve got to complete it. That way I can take a few breaks and keep my mind fresh.
Alison Latham
5 years ago
Motivation comes in the form of coffee. Lots of it!
Kate Davies
5 years ago
I web design so I write myself a detailed to do list with allotted time for snack/tea breaks, nothing helps motivate you better than the prospect of a cuppa once your task is done 🙂
Alan Youngman
5 years ago
I’ve been retired a long time. I was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2009 just before my 51st birthday. I never returned to worked but took redundancy at the end of 2013 and after a few months decided to take my company pension. The tumor is stabalised now but I do from time to time suffer from prolonged bouts of depression. When I’m feeling good I like to make the most of the hours in the day. I don’t like spending a lot of time on one particular job so I have several projects on the go so that I can switch from one to another as the mood takes me, it prevents boredom stting in.
Brigitte Leprince
5 years ago
I like to prioritize myself, by writing a list which helps me achieve my goals and marking of what you have achieved is an instant motivation! I also tell myself I can meet the deadlines and pride myself in getting a good result.
allmyfaves.com
4 years ago
Some truly prime articles on this site, saved to bookmarks.