Your Perfect Recipe to Maximise Workday Productivity
By Ang Brennan, Head of Learning and Talent at Insights.
As many as 87% of UK employees report struggling with burnout, depression, stress, or anxiety, according to the latest research from Benenden Health has highlighted. For female founders and entrepreneurs, the stakes can feel even higher—long hours and the demands of leadership can take a toll on both your productivity and wellbeing.
To thrive in today’s fast-paced work environment, it’s essential to structure your day—and support your team in doing the same—in a way that balances efficiency with self-care.
Think of your workday like a recipe: blending structure with self-awareness can help you create a fulfilling, balanced routine that fuels both personal and professional success.
Setting Your Focus
At a recent Insights Live event with over 100 delegates, we explored how breaking down your tasks into “must-haves”, “should-haves”, and “could-haves” can help you set priorities and stay on track. This simple framework encourages you to align your daily achievements with your overall wellbeing.
“Must-haves” are your non-negotiables—the core elements that create stability and purpose in your day.
“Should-haves” are important contributors to workplace satisfaction and personal fulfilment. While not as critical as your “must-haves”, they’re often the difference between a good day and a great day.
“Could-haves” are optional extras—nice-to-have elements that can add value to your day but aren’t essential.
Your Perfect Recipe
While everyone’s “perfect recipe” looks a little different, there are some universal ingredients that can boost productivity and wellbeing.
Clear Objectives
Without a clear direction, productivity quickly falter. Start your day by identifying your top three priorities and breaking them into manageable steps. This keeps you focused and prevents overwhelm. Be realistic about what you can achieve; it’s better to under-promise and over-deliver than to burn out.
Collaboration
Does working with others energise you? Regular check-ins with colleagues or teams can boost morale, foster a sense of community, and provide opportunities to share progress and challenges. For those working remotely, scheduling regular 1:1s and informal catch-ups can recreate those “water cooler” moments and strengthen team spirit.
Regular Breaks
Working through the day without breaks might feel productive, but it’s a recipe for burnout. Short, intentional breaks—even just a quick walk—can recharge your energy and improve focus. Movement in particular is great for clearing your mind and fighting off mental fatigue.
Deep Focus Time
Constant notifications can make deep work feel impossible. Carve out distraction-free time in your day to tackle complex tasks. Use tools like noise-cancelling headphones, focus playlists, or app blockers to minimise interruptions. Block this time in your calendar so others know not to disturb you.
Learning and Growth
Incorporating professional development into your routine can reignite your passion for work. Whether it’s a short webinar or an in-depth course, prioritising growth—even in small doses—keeps you inspired and motivated.
Reflection and Planning
End your day by reflecting on your achievements and planning for tomorrow. Acknowledging what went well and identifying areas for improvement fosters a sense of accomplishment and sets you up for success.
Matching Tasks to Energy Levels
Paying attention to your natural energy patterns can help you work smarter, not harder. Are you sharpest in the morning? Tackle strategic planning and problem-solving then. Feeling sluggish in the afternoon? Save routine tasks for that time. Work with your body, not against it.
The perfect workday isn’t about cramming in as much as possible—it’s about creating a sustainable routine that values both productivity and wellbeing. By identifying your “must-haves”, “should-haves,” and “could-haves,” you can craft a day that works for you.
Tools like Insights Discovery can help you and your team develop greater self-awareness, making it easier to identify the ingredients that fuel your success.
Next time you’re planning your workday, think of it as crafting a recipe. Adjust the ingredients as needed, experiment with new techniques, and enjoy the process. Over time, you’ll develop a personalised routine that keeps you engaged, resilient, and ready for anything.
