One <a href="http://psycnet.apa.org/record/2014-30837-001">study</a>&nbsp;found that workers in spaces with plants showed a 15 % higher productivity compared to those in plainer surroundings.&nbsp;Live plants also promote healthier indoor air, which <a href="https://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/15-10037/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">research has shown</a> has some effect on cognitive functioning in the workplace.

Introduce some greenery

Time Management

Creating motivation and making your team feel appreciated is a critical part of long-term productivity.Encourage your team to keep gratitude journals - writing down a couple of sentences about what you are currently grateful for a couple of times a week. This practice improves productivity by increasing happiness.

Show appreciation

If people can't focus on their work, they are less effective in areas like collaboration and learning, and they are less likely to be satisfied with their jobs.Workplaces with a balance between individual focus and collaboration are more innovative, creative and encouraging.

Create some privacy

<ul><li>Switch to softer, more-natural-toned bulbs instead of halogens.</li><li>LED lighting&nbsp;also may be more ideal for alertness and performance compared to fluorescent bulbs.</li><li>Lensed-uplit conditions are preferable to the more common overhead downlighting, resulting in less eye strain and higher productivity.&nbsp;</li><li>Taking breaks outdoors when possible also provides sunshine boosts during the day.</li></ul>

Let the sunshine in

Temperatures from 68 F to 77 F seem to&nbsp;improve productivity.Try chatting with your staff to get an idea of what makes them comfortable since factors like windows and vent placement also play a role.

Keep temperatures moderate

Short breaks&nbsp;result in greater productivity and accuracy, especially with repetitive work.&nbsp;For <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/updates/restbrks.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">computer-based employees</a>, frequent rest breaks also help reduce eye strain and physical discomfort<ul><li>The most productive people work "with a purpose" for an average of 52 minutes straight followed by 17-minute breaks.&nbsp;</li><li>Another method is the Pomodoro Technique, which involves focusing for 25 minutes followed by a five-minute break. Longer breaks are included after several cycles,</li><li>During your breaks, try listening to music, stretch, socialize or take a power nap.&nbsp;</li></ul>

Take strategic breaks

7 min read Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own. In any company, no matter how large or small, time is money. Mastering the art of getting things done (a.k.a., productivity) thus proves very important to creating and maintaining success.