Stress in moderation can sometimes be motivating and help improve performance. However, excessive or chronic stress can have negative effects on your well-being and productivity. When you’re faced with limited time and high pressure to complete a task or project, it’s natural to feel more stressed and overwhelmed and less productive. Today’s WorkthWorkn4Wednesdays installation is all about this:

Too Much Stress is Bad for Your Productivity

 The stress may arise from the fear of not meeting the deadline, concerns about the quality of work, or the sheer volume of tasks to be completed within a short period can impact your productivity times.

Hence, stress over deadlines may lead to difficulties in focusing, decision-making, and problem-solving, and can even result in physical symptoms like headaches, sleep disturbances, and decreased immune function.

When faced with a deadline while feeling tired, it can be challenging to maintain focus and productivity. Here are some steps you can take to manage your situation:

1. Assess your Priorities

 Review your tasks and determine which ones are absolutely essential to meet the deadline. Focus on the critical tasks that must be completed and set aside any non-essential or less important activities for later.

2. Break it Down

 Break your remaining work into smaller, manageable chunks. This approach allows you to tackle one piece at a time, making it less overwhelming. Prioritize which aspects of the project you can get out of the way first. You can start with the heaviest or attention intensive tasks or you can get the small details out of the way first. For instance, when I am writing, I try to do the analysis first and do the intro later, as it’s easier for me to retrace my steps. Or, if I am researching, I tend to collect all the data first and then go offline and do the compilation.

3. Mange Time

 Allocate specific time blocks for each task to ensure that you make progress while still allowing for breaks. Consider using productivity techniques like the Pomodoro Technique, which involves working for a set period (e.g., 25 minutes) and then taking a short break (e.g., 5 minutes). Repeat this cycle a few times and take a more extended break (e.g., 15-30 minutes) after completing a few cycles.

4. Eliminate Distractions

Minimize potential distractions as much as possible. Put your phone on silent mode in another room, close irrelevant tabs on your computer, and inform colleagues or family members that you need uninterrupted time to focus on your work.

5. Utilize Energy-Boosting Techniques

 Incorporate activities that can help increase your energy levels. Take short breaks to stretch, do some light exercises, or engage in deep breathing exercises. Additionally, consuming healthy snacks, such as fruits, nuts, or yogurt, can provide a natural energy boost.

6. Find Motivation

Remind yourself of the purpose and importance of completing the task. Visualize the positive outcomes and rewards associated with meeting the deadline. Seek motivation from inspirational quotes, success stories, or support from colleagues or mentors. Watch short motivational clips on YouTube about productivity, focus, concentration and the value of working against the odds. TED Talks are excellent to watch when you need a break, but don’t want to get too distracted and lose your hard built focus.  

7. Seek help if Possible

 If the workload is too demanding, consider delegating or asking for assistance or a reconsideration of the dadline Reach out to colleagues or supervisors to explain your situation and see if they can provide any support to lighten your workload or extend the deadline if necessary.

8. Take Strategic Power Naps

If you have a brief window of time, a power nap of 20-30 minutes can provide a quick recharge and increase alertness. Set an alarm to prevent oversleeping and ensure it doesn’t interfere with your nighttime sleep schedule. I have set up a comfy couch near my workstation, which I use to rest my back and catch my breath during hectic work stretches.

Remember, while it’s important to meet deadlines, your health and well-being should not be compromised. If possible, try to plan ahead in the future to avoid last-minute stress and fatigue. Take breaks, practice self-care, and get sufficient sleep to maintain your long-term productivity and overall well-being.