Naps can do wonders for your memory and help you solidify things you've just learned. Perhaps more importantly, a short nap is the best way to improve your energy levels when they're low. Try drinking a cup of coffee just before a quick nap for the biggest energy boost.

It takes about 20 mi...

When I'm writing, I close my email and other tabs. I don't have any notifications showing up on my computer at all so that I can focus on the task ahead. Try turning off all notifications while you're working, or if that sounds too extreme, only turn them off during the periods you need to...

A smaller to-do list is less intimidating and more achievable. There's nothing wrong with having a short to-do list if you're getting real work done. Start with your Most Important Tasks (MITs) and limit the list to three items, a productivity tactic popularized by bloggerLeo Babauta .

Batching similar tasks can help you be more efficient because you're not switching back and forth between different types of work. This is especially useful for small tasks because you can knock out a bunch at once (and get a nice kick of productivity).

Plus, you can be intentional a...

Taking breaks is one of my favorite ways to work smarter. Without real breaks, our brains get tired, and we get distracted. Once you've given up multitasking, try taking a break between each task you focus on.

You could try something like the Pomodoro Technique or Flowtime to ...

If you didn't get the memo yet: multitasking is a myth. It's simply impossible for us to truly focus on multiple tasks that require real brainpower. And when you try to do it, you risk sacrificing your mental health .

It can feel like you are successfully managing all of these moving...