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Transform Your Workday: 20 Ways to Build Better Habits

Photo of Valentin Hinov
Valentin Hinov
Updated 02 Jul 2024 6 min read
Smiling woman holding a document

Have you ever wondered why some people seem to glide through their workdays with ease and success? The secret isn’t in rare superpowers or unattainable skills – it’s in the power of good habits!

In the workplace, small actions can create big waves. Adopting positive habits isn’t just a way to check off boxes on your to-do list (although we can all agree that’s a great feeling) – it’s a path to transforming your entire career and personal development

So, while many end the workday feeling overextended, imagine a different scenario. What if you could leave the office feeling revitalised, as if you’ve just stepped out of a Mama Mia sing-a-long? That’s where we come in. 

Join Thankbox as we uncover 20 dynamic habits that will revolutionise your office hours! Let’s get started!

Top 20 habits to boost your nine-to-five routine

If you’re looking to fast-track your professional growth, we’ve got just the thing. Here’s a handpicked list of powerful habits to push you in the right direction. Let’s dive in and see what they are:

1. Avoid gossip

Gossip can be detrimental, as it erodes trust and diminishes productivity. Instead, cultivate a habit of engaging in positive, work-related discussions and speaking constructively about coworkers.

Birthday Thankbox

In line with encouraging positivity, consider using tools like Thankbox. Thankbox’s personalised group e-cards are a fantastic way to show appreciation, celebrate milestones, or simply uplift team spirit. Check out Thankbox’s online birthday cards and see for yourself.

2. Punctuality perfection

Punctuality isn’t just about being on time – it highlights respect and reliability, elevating your professional image. This simple habit transforms team dynamics and workplace efficiency, making every second count.

3. Daily routines

Establishing daily routines is like tracks guiding a train. These routines, whether a morning check-in or a midday review, provide a sense of control and accomplishment in your workday.

4. Prioritise your tasks

Feeling swamped with tasks? Try the Eisenhower Box. Sort your tasks into four simple categories – those that are urgent and important, important but not urgent, urgent but not important, and those that are neither urgent nor important. This method helps you prioritise what demands your attention first.

Create a reminder form

Similarly, using tools like Thankbox’s birthday reminder aligns perfectly with efficient task management. It simplifies remembering and celebrating office milestones, much like prioritising tasks supercharges daily productivity. 

Trust icons Revamp your workday with better habits!

Practise positive habits that drive productivity and personal growth. Create your Thankbox today and foster appreciation in your workplace!

5. Eagle-eyed proofreading

A quick review of your workplace communications prevents misunderstandings and showcases your attention to detail. Regular proofreading maintains your and your company’s credibility.

6. Set realistic goals

Setting goals is like using a GPS for your workday – it tells you where to go. But remember, goals should be like Goldilocks’ porridge – just right. Not too high that they’re out of reach, and not too low that they don’t challenge you. 

7. Create a comfy workspace

A comfy chair can make hours seem like minutes. Proper lighting and a clutter-free desk are game-changers, so toss out what you don’t need and keep only the essentials. You’ll feel more organised and ready to tackle the day.

8. Limit distractions

Let’s face it – we’re all a bit like magpies, easily distracted by the latest shiny thing. In the office, that shiny thing is often our phone. Turn off those notifications to help you maintain focus at work

Man using a laptop

9. Effective email management

Drowning in emails? You’re not alone. Start by setting specific times for checking messages – maybe once in the morning and once after lunch. Use folders or labels to organise emails by project, urgency, or whatever makes sense for you. 

10. Embrace collaboration tools

Gone are the days of back-and-forth emails and missed messages. Tools like Slack and Zoom have come to the rescue. Slack brings a virtual office while Zoom brings everyone together, face-to-face, even if you’re miles apart. 

11. Consistency is key

Building habits is like planting a tree – it takes consistent care. Whether organising your emails or taking regular breaks, do it daily. Consistency turns these actions into habits, embedding them into your workday automatically.

12. Reward yourself

Did you go through a week of work without succumbing to distractions? Time to celebrate! Reward yourself – maybe with a treat or a walk. Rewards reinforce your new habits, making them something to look forward to.

Young woman enjoying her meal

13. Track your progress

Keeping an eye on your progress is hugely motivating. Simple tools like habit-tracking apps can be your cheerleaders, showing how far you’ve come. Mark off each day you stick to your new habits and watch your success grow!

14. Seek support when needed

Sometimes, we all need a little help. Don’t hesitate to chat with colleagues when you’re struggling with your habits. A bit of encouragement or advice can make all the difference. It’s also a great chance to practise your active listening.

15. Adaptability

The only constant in life is change, right? Being adaptable in the workplace means being open to new methods, ideas, and technologies. Embrace change as an opportunity to grow and learn rather than a hurdle. 

16. The power of a positive attitude

Adopting a positive mindset transforms your workplace into a happier and more productive space. Radiating enthusiasm is contagious – your colleagues will mirror your energy. This collective positivity boosts staff morale and teamwork.

Cheerful women in a cafe

Trust icons Revamp your workday with better habits!

Practise positive habits that drive productivity and personal growth. Create your Thankbox today and foster appreciation in your workplace!

17. Set boundaries

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance starts with setting clear boundaries. Define your working hours and stick to them. Once your workday finishes, consciously step away from work-related emails and properly unwind.

18. Avoid saying “It’s not my job”

Try not to appear uncooperative as it can limit opportunities moving forward. Instead, show a willingness to help beyond your usual duties, balancing it with your primary responsibilities.

19. Honour deadlines

Delays in team projects have cascading effects, like postponing product launches. To manage this, break tasks into smaller parts, plan effectively and set reminders. Consistently meeting deadlines boosts your reliability.

20. Regular breaks

Taking short breaks refreshes your mind, enhancing focus and creativity. Remember to step away from your desk from time to time.

Woman with takeaway coffee and sandwich on street

Wrapping up

We’ve journeyed through 20 transformative habits that can reshape your workday into a more productive, satisfying experience. Remember, the key to success lies in small, consistent changes.

In the spirit of positive change, Thankbox offers an effortless yet impactful way to unite your workplace. So, why wait? Create a Thankbox today and set the stage for positive habits.


Images: Cover | Man using a laptop | Young woman enjoying her meal | Cheerful women in a cafe | Woman in a hurry on the street