If you’re like the majority of workers who suffer from the 3pm crash, try these helpful slump-busters and learn how to stay productive longer.

If you’re like the majority of workers who suffer from the 3pm crash, try these helpful slump-busters and learn how to stay productive longer.  

Put the chocolate down and eat something healthy instead 
You want a chocolate or a packet of sweets because your blood sugar drops a few hours after you eat – that’s normal. Filling that gap with luxuries might give you a boost for a few minutes, but you’ll only end up crashing even harder. Consider having a fruit, a wholewheat cracker with cheese, raisins, almonds or a cup of herbal tea.

Go for a walk

Sitting for long periods of time can lead to all sorts of health problems, not to mention fatigue. Make a point of getting up every now and then, whether it’s to go to the bathroom, chat about a work-related problem or go for a quick walk around your building. The quick walk will give you just the boost of energy you need.

Read up on the latest news in your industry
Perhaps you need a little change of scenery on your computer screen. Take a few minutes to read up on industry-related trends and the latest news in your field. Then share your findings with your colleagues – it might inspire new ideas and help you to be seen as a valuable employee.

Organise your day
If you find that you really can’t concentrate even after trying all of the above, rather than being completely unproductive, try organising your tasks for the next day. Set up your to-do list, clear unnecessary emails, sort your existing emails, do a back-up of your work and organise your work folders. If you really are finding it difficult to concentrate on work, don’t waste the last few hours of your time – organise your schedule to make sure your next day is more productive.