How to Get Unstuck at Work [5 Pro Tips]

Whether it's due to boredom, frustration or a lack of creativity, many people wonder how to get unstuck at work. This feeling could arise throughout the day or could even be something that builds up over time. If you're feeling like you're in a professional rut, there are simple ways to reset and give yourself a boost.

How to get unstuck at work

How often do you find yourself mindlessly staring at your computer screen? Or dragging your half-awake self through the work day with the overwhelming feeling of being unproductive? 

This is a common frustration. It may be comforting to know that most if not all of us go through periods of low energy and lack of focus every day. If you're feeling this way, don’t worry. There are plenty of strategies to get you back on track. Here are five suggestions for how to get unstuck at work.

Take a break 

Although it may seem counterintuitive, if it feels like you're getting nowhere, you may need a mental or physical reset. Breaks help improve focus, concentration and productivity. Engaging in activities such as stretching, going for a walk, practicing deep breathing, socializing with coworkers or just looking away from your screen for a few minutes can help recharge your energy levels, increase blood flow to the brain and provide a fresh perspective for the tasks at hand.

Prioritize and plan

With a neverending to-do list, feeling overwhelmed is normal. It's hard to know where to start some days! Taking time to prioritize your tasks will help create structure and allow you to focus on one thing at a time. Start by identifying the tasks that are the most important and plan to work on those first. Breaking down larger projects into smaller, more manageable tasks will make them feel less daunting.

Change your environment 

Something as simple as changing your scenery can do wonders for your motivation. If you're feeling stuck—and your work arrangement allows for it—consider changing locations. It's amazing what getting out of your regular office and spending time working at a coffee shop, co-working space, virtual office or even a park can do. If it's not possible to leave your office, try changing your physical location for a while (perhaps a different desk or floor). 

A new environment can stimulate your brain, increase focus and enhance creativity. Experiment with different settings to find what works best. It's also a good idea to look at your current workspace and see if there are ways to optimize or declutter to create a more inspiring and comfortable atmosphere. 

Time blocking 

One effective strategy for getting unstuck at work is time blocking. This practice dedicates blocks of time for specific tasks throughout your day, including breaks. Time blocking allows you to plan for periods of focused work while avoiding distractions, such as email and social media notifications. Assigning time slots for tasks creates a structured routine that minimizes procrastination and optimizes productivity. It also helps eliminate the feeling of not knowing what to do next, or like everything needs to be done at the same time.

Embrace self-care

Taking care of yourself is an important aspect of maintaining high levels of efficiency and productivity. If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed or unmotivated at work, take a look inward. Are you getting enough sleep? Are you eating a balanced diet? Are you getting enough exercise and movement breaks? If not, plan to address those areas and see what a difference it makes to your work day.

Some people may find it helpful to incorporate mindfulness practices into their routines, which can help reduce stress and improve focus. When you prioritize self-care, you’ll find yourself better equipped to tackle challenges that come your way and regain motivation during work hours.

Feeling stuck at times is normal, but you don't have to stay stuck. By developing strategies for dealing with energy fluctuations or overwhelm, you'll arm yourself with effective ways to navigate through these low points. These five suggestions will get you started, but as you experiment, you'll likely discover many other ways to get unstuck at work. Enjoy the journey!

About Robyn Roste

Robyn Roste is a professional writer living and working in Abbotsford BC Canada. Her personal blog about freelance writing(http://robynroste.com) is listed in The 100 Best Websites for Writers in 2020 by The Write Life.