It's a relatable scenario: You're so exhausted that you feel like you can put your head on your desk and go to dream land, but you've got important deadlines to finish. Whether you stayed out too late for happy hour or watched your favorite TV show until 2 a.m., being tired can really slow you down at work. However, it's possible to increase your productivity by following these five tips:
1. Create a To-Do List
When you are running on little sleep, it's imperative to have made a to-do list on Post-It notes before you start your work. One of these lists will keep you organized and prevent you from getting off track. Rieva Lesonsky, CEO and founder of GrowBiz Media, suggests putting no more than three items on your to-do list.
"Limiting your to-do list to three items helps ensure you have buffer time for unexpected problems, drop-in employees or other issues that arise during a day," Lesonsky explained in OPEN Forum. "If someone else sets your schedule … make sure you block off enough time to accomplish your tasks and have some extra cushion built in so you won't get overscheduled."
2. Take a Quick Nap
The thought of taking a nap during work may seem ridiculous, but it can actually increase your energy levels. Sara C. Mednick, author of "Take a Nap! Change Your Life," told WebMD a 15- to 20-minute nap can provide several benefits.
"You reset the system and get a burst of alertness and increased motor performance," Mednick said. "That's what most people really need to stave off sleepiness and get an energy boost."
During your break, consider taking a quick nap in your car, at your desk or in a conference room.
3. Get a Move On
Exercise is a known energy booster, so try to fit in some physical activity during the work day. For example, go for a nice walk during your lunch hour. If the weather isn't so nice, there are plenty of exercises you can do by your desk, such as jumping jacks and lunges. Your co-workers may have puzzled looks on their faces, but at least you will get a good workout in.
4. Eat Energy-Boosting Snacks
There's nothing wrong with having a snack or two at your desk if they will help increase your productivity. One of the best energy-boosting snacks you can eat is a half a banana with 1 tablespoon of peanut butter. According to Health.com, the natural sugars in bananas take longer to metabolize than sugars in candy while the protein in peanut butter provides your body with hours of energy.
5. Surf the Web
Surfing the net at work has been proven to increase productivity, so don't hesitate to visit one of your favorite websites. The research study "Impact of Cyberloafing on Psychological Engagement" conducted by Don J.Q. Chen and Vivien K.G Lim of the National University of Singapore found that browsing the Internet can refresh tired workers and improve productivity more so than other activities like sending emails and texting. Researchers said visiting websites you enjoy isn't as cognitively demanding as reading emails, so it's more rejuvenating.