When you set resolutions for a new year, you should take time to think of how you could grow both personally and professional. For 2016, make sure you reflect on how you could improve your workplace productivity, attitude, and overall experience. We outline 16 recommended workplace resolutions for the New Year.

1. No Social Media

Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram are fun social media outlets, but should not be used during work hours. Having these accounts open will only tempt you to check your notifications. To become more productive this year, you should not use these applications while at work.

2. Avoid Gossiping

We have all been guilty once in our lives of speaking negatively of a co-worker or superior. In 2016, avoid these kinds of conversations as they only cause negative consequences. If you have an issue with someone you should deal with it directly. You don’t want the reputation of being untrustworthy and mean spirited.

3. Take more Breaks

With work hours increasing, many employees have a hard time leaving their desks. Sitting stagnant without taking a lunch break has actually been proven to reduce productivity. Next time it’s a beautiful day out, take at least a 20-30 minute break to move around. You will return refreshed and ready to complete your objectives.

4. Don’t Apologize for Things that are not your Fault

This New Year take responsibility for your own actions, but stop apologizing for things that are not your fault. There are things that are just out of your control, so don’t apologize for a co-worker’s mistake or take on other people’s battles.

5. Eat Healthier & More

Take time out of your day to eat a healthy and nutritious lunch as well as snacks such as fruit and nuts. Not only will this improve your overall health, but this will make you more productive. Also, make sure you’re eating enough food to keep you energized throughout the workday.

6. Interact with your Co-workers

People often gravitate toward co-workers that work directly in their respective departments. This year, venture outside of the marketing or finance realm and converse with people in different departments. You will gain a holistic perspective of the organization and open yourself up to new people.

7. Set Earlier Deadlines

If something is due on the 14th of the month try to complete it by the 7th or 10th to give yourself some extra lead time. It is always better to have work finished earlier than later, as you never know when some unexpected workplace project or challenge will arise.

8. Honesty is the Best Policy

If there is a situation in which you are not sure whether to ask for help or confide in your superior, always be honest. If there is any doubt in your mind about how to handle a certain situation, honesty is the best policy as it will save yourself the trouble of future conflict. Management will appreciate this rather than if you withhold important information.

9. Stay off your Email

Check your email once an hour versus every 5 minutes. Not only does this cause multi-tasking, but it actually reduces your productivity. By checking an email account constantly throughout the day, you are breaking your train of thought and forgetting potentially bright ideas.

10. Attend Work-Related Events

Attend as many company related events as possible. Expand your horizons and network with others to open yourself up to new people. If there is a chamber of commerce event or holiday party, this is a critical opportunity for you to connect with your co-workers on a more personal level as well as showing you’re committed to the team.

11. Stay Engaged during Meetings

During company or client meetings, stay engaged and present. Although sometimes the content may seem irrelevant or does not interest you, being familiar with everything that is going on in your company, across other departments, is important. You never know what you will learn during these meetings so don’t venture off into your imagination.

12. Keep your Desk Organized

Get rid of loose paperwork, magazines, and other unnecessary items that are irrelevant while throwing out trash on a daily basis. Sitting at an organized desk will make you more productive and you will be proud of your work area.

13. Wipe down your Keyboard & Desk Surface

The keyboard and desktop have been proven to be one of the dirtiest places in the office. This year, clean both surfaces with a disinfectant solution at least one a week. Keep your workspace clean and reduce the chance of getting sick, especially during the cold and flu season.

14. Stop Complaining…

Stop complaining because nobody wants to be around someone who gives off negative energy. The old adage, “nobody listens anyways,” is definitely applicable to the workplace. Everyone has their challenging work days, but it is important to remain positive.

15. Get to Work 15 Minutes Earlier

You would be surprised how arriving to work 15 minutes earlier can make such a big difference in your daily productivity. First, the majority of your co-workers will not be present so this is a perfect time to get a head start on daily objectives without any interruption. Second, your superiors and co-workers will appreciate your hard-work and dedication.

16. Don’t become Complacent

No matter where you fall on the totem pole, make sure you are challenging yourself each day. Ask insightful questions to your superiors or co-workers. If you don’t feel challenged by your work, share your feelings with the boss or manager. This will not only foster continuous, personal learning but will illustrate to your superiors that you are incredibly dedicated to the company and your job.

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