Productivity tips for designers

Being productive as a designer means the difference between getting loads and getting nothing done. With lightning fast Internet connections and superb smart phones, temptation is almost always readily available at our fingertips. With social networking, instant messaging and websites that are updated constantly through the day and night, it’s amazing that we manage to get any work done at all.  Productivity and the ability to concentrate fluctuates, but knowing how to manage it makes all the difference.  Here are some tips to help you improve your productivity.

Disconnect from the Internet

Sometimes temptation is just too hard to overcome without taking a serious measure.  Consider working from a location where there is no Internet available.  If you need an Internet connection to get your work done, it’s time to turn off your email alerts and pop up notifications.  These constant distractions break your attention and make it difficult for you to get back into the zone.

Take a walk

If you are in a slump and finding it difficult to concentrate, get away from your computer screen and embrace nature.  Taking some time out from the screen will give your brain an opportunity to recharge.  Your productivity will improve once you get back to your desk.

Start your day by taking care of your most important tasks

Getting started is often the hardest part of a project.  It’s easy to spend your time doing busy work but it’s also a waste of your time.  Don’t put off your most pressing tasks – once you have begun, you will find it hard to stop.

Set a timer

Setting a timer can help force yourself to concentrate for a set period of time.  It can be motivating knowing that you can take a well deserved break after putting in some time.  To begin with, set your timer for short intervals and start working.  You will be amazed at how much you can achieve.

Play some background music

The right music can help you concentrate.  Choose classical music, electronic music or your favourite type of music without lyrics.  Ideally, you will want to listen to music without lyrics as you may find the lyrics distracting.

Create a design space

Create your own design space and surround yourself with inspiration.  Put up pictures that inspire you, make a mood board and change the background on your computer screen.  Surround yourself with things that inspire you.

Stop fixating on perfect results

Not every piece of work that you create can be an original piece of outstanding art.  It’s important to learn when a piece of work is simply good enough.

Create a list

A simple tip that people often overlook.  Write out what you need to do the day before and feel the satisfaction of crossing out your completed tasks.

Aim for consistency

Create consistent work habits.  If you have a big project looming over your head, do a little every day.  Small steps can lead to big results.  Create a ritual that prepares you for work.

Get enough sleep

Pulling the odd all-nighter might give you a temporary boost in productivity but it’s far from sustainable.  Aim for eight hours sleep a night and begin every day feeling refreshed.

Related articles

• Minimising distractions – 10 top tips (simplybusiness.co.uk)
• Productivity Tips and Going into “The Zone” (lefteris.realintelligence.net)
• Five Tips to make Work From Home work for You (blogbysuchitra.wordpress.com)