With Ramadan just around the corner, many employees will be rejoicing the advent of shorter workdays. For those who observe the fast, we understand how hard some days during the month of Ramadan may be. However as an employee, it is important that you stay on top of your tasks and maintain your productivity levels at all times.
From our experience, and through trial and error, we’ve discovered some tips and tricks that can help you go through Ramadan smoothly this year. So, if you want to make sure none of your workdays during Ramadan are ‘task-less’ or unproductive, follow these tips to help you stay motivated and productive at all times.
Eating Habits
While it is no surprise that many people in the MENA tend to get carried away with the festivities and end up engaging in unhealthy eating habits, it is imperative to balance your diet during the Holy Month. Consult with a dietitian to figure out the right way to maintain a healthy eating regimen while fasting.
Exercising
We all look forward to shorter working hours during Ramadan to get back home and relax until it’s time to break our fasts. But, those extra few hours can be, and should be, used for exercise. The human body is incredible, even when fasting, you can still have the energy to work out. Consult with a personal trainer about safe physical activity while fasting. Exercise can balance the body, hence more energy and focus.
Don’t Waste Time
Doing mindless activities and wasting hours in front of the television are some of Ramadan’s biggest guilty pleasures. If the hours between Iftar and Suhour are spent doing productive activities such as emailing and reading, it can help you maintain a productive mindset throughout.
Hydrate
Hydrate well during the night and at Suhour and after Iftar so that you do not get dehydrated on the job. Severe dehydration can even lead to people passing out on the job. Drink plenty of water and electrolyte-rich drinks, such as coconut water.
Plan Ahead the Night Before
When you wake up for Suhour, or before going to bed, you can try planning the day ahead. Think about what you want to achieve and how you’re going to do it. A simple to-do list on your phone can help manage your expectations, as well as the people around you.
1. Must do; 2. Good to do; 3. Can wait
Apply this method to your to-do list and try to get the most important task done first thing in the morning and before noon. By the time the clock strikes mid-day, you’ll experience a slump, which will negatively affect your productivity.
Avoid the Slump
If you happen to feel a slump coming or become extremely hungry, drop everything and so something low energy. You can clean your desk, complete administrative work, or just rearrange your computer’s desktop or email folders.
Online Distractions
Online distractions at work are a bane to productivity. So be sure Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and the entire clique are something you do only after work hours, or during your prescribed ‘distraction’ periods.
Volunteer
Ramadan is the month of giving back, and many companies give their employees paid time to give back to the community. Ask your employer if you can schedule some charity work during Ramadan. Doing good and working outside the office will not only help those in need but will actually make you more productive.
—————————
About Bayt.com:
Bayt.com is the #1 job site in the Middle East with more than 40,000 employers and over 27,500,000 registered job seekers from across the Middle East, North Africa and the globe, representing all industries, nationalities and career levels. Post a job or find jobs on www.bayt.com today and access the leading resource for job seekers and employers in the region.