Why Finance should tackle new projects on Tuesdays

In terms of productivity, Monday isn’t when most employees’ workweeks get started. 

Ever feel like you’re spinning your wheels trying to get your week started on some Mondays? You’re not alone: Many people spend Monday finishing up work from the previous week and planning out their schedule for the rest of the week.

It turns out that Tuesday is when the week really gets going. Almost 40% of businesses say it’s their most productive day of the week, according to a recent survey by Accountemps. The survey’s 2013 findings are consistent with similar productivity surveys going back to 1987.

Keeping productivity high

The goal is, of course, to take Tuesday’s work energy and make it last the rest of the week. Here are four ways Finance can make every day like Tuesday, according to AccountingWEB.com:

1. Take things one at a time. Although it might seem like it would help productivity, multitasking can actually slow you down. Not only does it take extra time to switch between tasks, multitasking can also cause errors. So no checking emails while going over mileage rates.
2. Disconnect yourself. Turn off mobile devices for short periods of time and sign out of your email. Unless you’re expecting an urgent message, it can wait for an hour while you review your upcoming presentation to accounting.
3. Know your best time. Some people are highly productive in the morning, but then struggle in the afternoons. Other people’s productivity is highest right after lunch. Figure out when your best time is, and schedule important tasks for that time.
4. Set reasonable expectations. When creating your to-do list for the day or week, focus solely on your top priorities. Lists that are too full or don’t leave room for unexpected tasks can lead to frustration and lowered productivity.