Summer vacation is over, and the rhythm of school or work is back. For many, it feels like your brain needs to recharge before you can fully concentrate. However, with a few smart strategies, you can get started smoothly and energetically, maintain your focus, and organize your day more efficiently.
First things first:
Start with a moment of overview. Take a moment in the morning (or the night before) to list your most important tasks for the day. Instead of endlessly making lists, choose three priorities that truly need attention. This way, you'll start with a clear goal and avoid getting sidetracked by small tasks. Use a handy planner or notebook —whatever works best for you.
A smart way to stay focused is to focus on the most difficult task of the day first. Once you've completed that, everything afterward will feel much easier and more achievable. It's a good way to build momentum and create a sense of accomplishment before tackling other tasks.
Limiting distractions plays a major role in your productivity. Create a clean workspace and ensure you're not constantly interrupted by notifications or other tasks. Taking short breaks also helps: regularly resting your eyes or taking a short walk keeps your energy levels up and your mind clear.
2-minute rule
It also helps to quickly handle small tasks right away. Anything that takes less than a few minutes can be done immediately. This prevents tasks from piling up and helps you maintain an overview, leaving your mind free for more important tasks.
Tip: Use this rule to keep your house tidy too
Finally, it's valuable to take a moment to reflect daily. At the end of the day, you can briefly evaluate what went well and what could be improved tomorrow. This helps you continuously improve your working methods and prevents you from getting stuck in routines that don't work.
Start small
A fresh start doesn't have to be overwhelming. By organizing your day, choosing smart priorities, and limiting distractions, you won't work harder, but smarter. Start small, gradually build up your rhythm, and you'll find yourself back in full flow in no time. And be kind to yourself and give yourself time to get back into the swing of things. Good luck – you can do this!
about the author - Kirsten Oosterwaal
Kirsten is the face behind Maison KOOS. She lives in Waalwijk, Brabant, with her husband and two children. She loves sharing tips and ideas about interior design and sustainability. She enjoys coffee, yoga, reading, snowboarding, Nintendo, and enjoying delicious food and drinks with friends and family.
