Being more productive at workplace is the key to success. No matter if you are a business owner or a project manager, obviously you want to get the most from your resources. But if you are not performing well or not managing your time effectively, then your long-term job prospects could be in a big trouble.

To accomplish your goals and to make the most of your time, it is advised to allocate your time smartly. To get more done at work and to increase your output, consider these 10 effective strategies for boosting your productivity at workplace.

1. Track How Much Time You Spend on Your Tasks

Most of us think that they are pretty good at measuring how much time they are spending on each task. According to some researches, only 17% people have the capability to exactly estimate the passage of time. There is a tool called Rescue Time that can help you track the amount of time you actually spend on your routine activities, including browsing, social media, email, creating documents and more.

2. Taking Regular Breaks is a Must

Though it sounds counter-intuitive, taking short planned breaks can actually increase your concentration. A study shows that taking short breaks while doing long tasks can help you maintain a persistent level of performance and the eagerness to accomplish the task on time. While working at a task continuously for long hours without breaks can lead to steady decline in individual’s performance and productivity level.

3. Set Deadlines and Stick to Them

Sometimes it is necessary to set self-imposed deadlines that can actually help you stay focused to meet your goals. For open-ended tasks, it is recommended to give yourself a deadline and then stick to it. Give it a try, believe me you will be more productive and sharp while completing your tasks.

4. Follow Olenski’s Rule

Steve Olenski is the most influential content strategist who strongly recommends the two-minute rule. According to him, complete the task right away that you know can be easily completed immediately. It actually helps you complete the task in a lesser amount of time than having to get back to it later.

5. Limit Your Meetings

Believe it or not, meetings are one of the biggest time killers, but somehow we all need to obediently attend them. An average employee spends more than 31 hours every month in useless, boring, unproductive meetings. So, before scheduling your next meeting, make sure to ask yourself whether you can meet the same goals via email, phone or Skype that can be slightly less time consuming and more productive.

6. Just Say No to Multitasking

We all think that the ability to multitask is an important skill for increasing productivity and efficiency. But reality is the exact opposite. Psychologists have reported that trying to do multiple tasks at one time can result in wastage of time and decreased productivity. It is advisable to make a habit of completing a single task prior to moving on the next task/project.

7. Get the Most Out of Your Free Time

Luckily, if you find an unexpected free time, use that bonus time wisely. Instead of scrolling your Facebook timeline or playing games like candy crush make the best use of this time by replying emails, creating your to-do lists, or do some healthy brainstorming.

8. Nothing is Ever Perfect, Just Get It Done

Try to make your task to the best of your capability, complete it and move on. Don’t waste your time in trying to perfect a task. If it needs any perfection, you can always come back and make amendments to improve it.

9. Be Active at Work

Obviously you are not expected to resist the urge to see the text message, voicemail or an email. Set aside time for responding to emails and messages. Turn off your notifications to avoid distractions and do your best to meet the deadline. Minimizing interruptions at work can maintain a consistent flow in work pattern and a corresponding increase in productivity.

Workouts at Work

Taking exercise breaks may actually increase your productivity level, study suggests. Set aside a time for gym during the day. Staying active and getting your blood pumping is what you need to energize your brain and get your focus back.