You’re feeling sluggish at work. How can you recharge your energy and productivity?

1 Check your communication channels

Communication systems are the tools and methods that you use to exchange information and collaborate with others. They can include email, phone, chat, video conferencing, project management software, and more. How you use them can have a big impact on your energy and productivity. For example, if you have too many notifications, messages, or calls, you might feel overwhelmed and distracted. If you have too few, you might feel isolated and disconnected. To find the right balance, check your communication channels regularly and prioritize the most important and urgent ones. Also, set some boundaries and expectations with your colleagues and clients, and let them know when you’re available and when you need some focus time.

2 Use communication systems to connect and socialize

Communication systems are not only for work-related purposes, but also for building and maintaining relationships with your co-workers, managers, and customers. This is especially important if you work remotely or in different locations, as you might miss the social interaction and support that you would get in a physical office. To avoid feeling lonely and bored, use communication systems to connect and socialize with others. For example, you can schedule regular check-ins, feedback sessions, or brainstorming meetings with your team. You can also join or create virtual coffee breaks, happy hours, or games with your colleagues. And don’t forget to show appreciation and recognition to your clients and partners, and ask them how they’re doing.

4 Take breaks from your communication systems

While communication systems can be very useful and beneficial for your energy and productivity, they can also be exhausting and distracting if you use them too much or too often. That’s why it’s important to take breaks from your communication systems, and give yourself some time to rest, recharge, and focus on other things. For example, you can turn off or mute your notifications, messages, or calls for a while, and set a timer or an alarm to remind you to come back. You can also close or minimize your communication apps or tabs, and focus on one task at a time. And you can take some time away from your screen, and do something that relaxes or energizes you, such as stretching, meditating, reading, or listening to music.

5 Customize your communication systems to suit your preferences and needs

Communication systems are not one-size-fits-all, and different people might have different preferences and needs when it comes to using them. For example, some people might prefer to communicate verbally, while others might prefer to communicate visually. Some people might like to have frequent and informal chats, while others might like to have scheduled and formal meetings. Some people might enjoy using multiple communication tools, while others might enjoy using one or a few. To make the most of your communication systems, customize them to suit your preferences and needs. For example, you can choose the communication channels that work best for you and your audience, and adjust the settings, features, or options to your liking. You can also ask for feedback, suggestions, or opinions from others, and be open to trying new or different communication systems.

6 Learn and improve your communication systems

Communication systems are constantly evolving and changing, and new or better tools and methods might emerge or become available. To keep up with the trends and innovations, and to enhance your energy and productivity, learn and improve your communication systems. For example, you can research, explore, or experiment with new or different communication tools or methods, and see how they fit your goals and needs. You can also enroll in online courses, webinars, or workshops that teach you how to use communication systems effectively and efficiently. And you can seek feedback, advice, or guidance from experts, mentors, or peers who have more experience or knowledge in communication systems.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?