How to boost your productivity at work, starting with your to do list!

We all have those days when our to-do list feels like it's taking over our life. That familiar feeling: you're drowning in tasks, your desk is a mess, and somehow it's already 3 PM (how did that happen?!). So we thought we’d kick 2025 off with some TreatBox tips to help you get your life together and start enjoying crossing things off your to-do.

Okay, let's talk about notebooks, and no, not the kind that needs charging! There's just something about putting pen to paper that just hits different than typing notes on your phone. Plus, studies show we remember things better when we write them down (science backs us up here!).

When picking out your perfect notebook, look for:

• Pages that make your pen glide like butter
• A design that makes you smile every time you look at it
• A layout that works with your brain, not against it

We've all sighed at those "5 AM Club" posts on Instagram; your morning routine needs to work for YOU. Here's how to set yourself up for success without having to wake up before the sun:

1. Plan Tomorrow Tonight

Before you dive headfirst into Netflix for the evening, take five minutes to jot down your top three "must-dos" for tomorrow. Future-you will thank you for it while your morning brain is waiting for the coffee to brew!

2. Time Blocking (But Make It Flexible)

Map out your day in chunks, but keep it realistic. Nobody's actually productive for 8 hours straight! Use your notebook to create time blocks that include coffee breaks, lunch dates, and yes, even scroll time.

3. The Two-Minute Rule

If something takes less time than watching a TikTok video, just do it now. Seriously, this one will change your life. 

Let’s normalise taking breaks in 2025. Because pushing through for hours on end isn't doing anyone any favours. If you’re struggling with staying on task and find your mind wandering, try this instead:

• Work for 25 minutes 
• Take a 5-minute break (perfect for a quick scroll or stretch)
• After four rounds, treat yourself to a proper break

Use a notepad to track when you're most productive. Are you a morning person? Afternoon conquerer? Night owl? Work with your natural rhythm, not against it, and you’ll soon find your perfect productivity mix!

Take 5 minutes at the end of your day to:

• Celebrate what you accomplished (even tiny wins count!)
• Note down any brilliant ideas
• Start planning for tomorrow

Your notebook will become a diary of your progress – and it’ll be so satisfying to look back on!

Productivity isn’t about burning yourself out; it’s about finding a balance you can maintain. So how can you actually make it work in real life?

• Listen to your body (sometimes that 3 PM slump means you need a snack)
  
• Stay hydrated (cute water bottle optional but recommended)
  
• Move your body when you can (even desk stretches count)
  
• Keep your workspace organised (take this as our full permission to buy those aesthetic desk accessories)

Productivity isn't just about doing more, it's about doing what matters most, and doing it well. With the right tools (hello, new notebook!), strategies that work for real humans, and a generous dose of self-compassion, you've totally got this. And on days when you don't? That's okay too.

So find your flow, and you’ll find your days work for you, not against you. Start small, be kind to yourself, and remember – progress over perfection, always!