If you are a blogger, then you probably spend the majority of your waking hours on the computer. Between writing, research, and communication, it takes up most of your work day. I do the same as a writer and online marketer. So, I am familiar with the need to find ways to be more efficient.

The reason I decided to start this career is so I can have the freedom and flexibility that a traditional brick and mortar business does not offer, or even allow. As a blogger, you probably know exactly what I am talking about…no more long commutes, time-consuming meetings, and interruptions from co-workers. So, you are already a step ahead with freeing up time for production.

However, there are other ideas that could help you produce more, and still work less hours than you did when working outside the home. Read on to learn what those are…

#1 Plan It Out

Making a plan first thing in the morning is a great tool for getting more accomplished. Put it in chronological order, starting with the most dreaded task you have to do. A list going from hardest to easiest will help you tackle more on that list by day’s end.

Rather than having a daunting task hang over your head all day, get it over with, so you can move on to the lighter tasks. Who doesn’t want to end the day on a good note? Take that weight off your shoulders so you aren’t worn out before you get to it.

#2 Ergonomics to the Rescue

I had a talk with a friend who was being treated by a chiropractor due to a car accident. She learned through her visits how she can best prevent the pitfalls stemming from working at a desk, or on a computer all day.

Most of it has to do with ergonomics, and how a specially designed chair, or keyboard can reduce stress on our backs, shoulders, and wrists. Here are some tips:

• Use a chair with lumbar support
• Have your feet resting comfortably on the floor
• Desk should be at a proper height so your arms are not raised unnaturally
• Ergonomic keyboards will help protect against carpal tunnel
• Raise the monitor to eye level so the neck is not bending down for long periods

At times you might be working someplace other than your home office. In that situation, place a pillow behind your back, and books on the floor to adjust to the same position that your lumbar chair provides.

#3 Headphones in Public

If you find yourself working in public, such as at a library or coffee house, use headphones to drown out background noise. It’s great to work in a different environment once in a while, which can be motivating. But, distractions are likely.

The headphones could also act as a deterrent to others approaching you and interrupting your work. I’m not suggesting that you become a hermit or anti-social. However, there is a time for work, and a time for socializing.

#6 Stay Away from Social Traps

Speaking of socializing, it’s best to not tempt yourself with keeping multiple windows open of your favorite social medias such as Facebook and Twitter…unless of course you post on them for business. Message boards that you interact with socially are also something to avoid during your work periods.

If the temptation is too strong, just shut it down.

#4 Break it Up

Sitting at a desk all day can be challenging, both physically and mentally. Getting up on occasion is great to rejuvenate both body and mind. Muscles tend to tighten up as we sit all day, which will lead to lower back pain, stiff necks, and potential blood clots in the legs.

If you find it difficult to remember these breaks, set a timer. When the timer goes off, go get a glass of water, let the dog out, or grab a snack. But, walk around the house a few times before sitting back down. You will notice the difference in how you feel at the end of the day, as well as how much you accomplish throughout the day.

#5 Set Goals

Setting goals has always been encouraged in business…because it works. If your work habits are to casually go through the day’s routine, with no target in sight, you won’t get nearly as much done as you could by setting goals.

These goals could be hitting a deadline for a project, or taking a family vacation. It doesn’t matter, as long as it provides incentive. When you meet one goal, set another…and never stop.

#7 Staying Healthy

Of course, if your health isn’t the best, it will have a negative impact on your energy. And, we all know it takes a lot of energy to keep a successful business going. Nobody is saying that you need to be marathon runner to keep up with your work load, especially me.

However, if you are at a decent weight, eat right, exercise, and drink plenty of water, you will feel your best. When we are at our best, so is our production. If you doubt that, think back to the last time you had a head cold. Did you accomplish as much as you normally do?

#8 Hold the Caffeine

I will be the first to admit that I don’t want to give up my coffee. I love it, and it loves me…in moderation. However, too much of even a good thing, is rarely a good thing. Too much caffeine can lead to a very jittery state of mind, making it harder to concentrate.

So, have your cup in the morning, maybe another in the afternoon, and then turn to water for the rest of the day. Also, caffeine is known for dehydrating our bodies, which can result in aching muscles, and a tired mind.

In Closing

I have just shared some ideas that can help you produce more in your career. Hopefully that will result in a better balance for both your business and personal life.

About the Author

As a successful writer, Mark Harris often focuses on articles where he can share valuable tips and information for his readers, such as what he learned by visiting http://atlaschiropracticphoenix.com/. In his early 30’s, Mark often works from his home office in White Rock, BC, but can also be found at the local coffee house on his laptop. When Mark is not working, he enjoys time with his wife, spending time on the many beaches that White Rock has to offer, kayaking, and hiking.