8 Ways to Boost Productivity Without Burning Out

Quick fixes are always tempting. Whether it’s “8-minute abs,” “10 kilograms in one month,” or the ever-popular “four-hour work week,” these promises appeal to our desire for fast results. But let’s be honest: if a few minutes a day were enough to build a six-pack, we would all have one by now. The truth is, real results come from consistent effort. That applies not only to fitness, but also to workplace productivity, particularly in Tokyo.

As an employee or manager, do you notice these trends in your Tokyo office:

• staying focused is difficult

• maintaining consistent energy throughout the day is a challenge

• long hours in front of a screen make your eyes tired

• constant notifications make it difficult to prioritize and focus

• endless tasks wear you down

We see many of our clients struggle with these exact issues. The good news is that small changes can make a big impact.

Here are eight practical ways to stay productive and energized during your workday.

1. Feel Stiff or Sore From Sitting Too Long? Move Your Body

If your body feels stuck, your brain likely does too. Stand up and do five slow squats in place. Even in a tight space, this simple movement increases circulation, supports posture, and helps reset your focus. You’ll return to your desk with better body awareness, improved oxygen flow, and more mental clarity.

2. Out of Time and Energy on a Task? Ask for Support

If a project is taking longer than expected, don’t power through it alone. Reach out to a colleague for input. If you work remotely, hop on a quick video call or send a message. Getting fresh eyes on a task can speed things up. If you’re in the office, take a short walk to someone’s desk—it boosts circulation and gives you valuable social interaction, something many of us have been missing in recent years.

3. Eyes Tired or Headache Coming On? Adjust Your Lighting

Poor lighting can cause fatigue, blurry vision, and headaches.

• If possible, switch to LED lighting and avoid harsh fluorescent bulbs.

• Blue light blocking glasses can help protect your eyes from screen exposure.

• Better yet, maximize natural light by sitting near a window.

• Take short breaks outdoors when you can. Exposure to daylight helps balance your circadian rhythm, keeping your energy up during the day and improving sleep at night.

4. Struggling to Make a Decision? Set a Timer

When indecision starts to slow you down, give yourself a deadline. Set a timer for five to fifteen minutes and commit to making a decision when the time is up. Taking a short break can also help reset your thoughts. Sometimes stepping away from the problem for a few minutes is all it takes for the solution to become clear.

5. Lacking Motivation? Let Music Move You

Music is a powerful motivator. Create a playlist of songs that inspire and energize you. Whether you love pop, classical, or something more unconventional, the right music can shift your mood and pull you into a productive flow. Use headphones to help block out distractions and create a mental boundary between you and outside noise.

6. Constantly Checking Your Phone? Train Your Focus

If your phone is stealing your attention, start by setting small limits. Try putting it away for ten minutes while you focus on a task. If that works, bump it up to fifteen. Over time, you can train your brain to resist distractions and stay present with your work. Multitasking is a myth—true productivity comes from focused, uninterrupted effort.

7. Feeling Foggy or Drained? Drink More Water

Dehydration is one of the most overlooked causes of fatigue and mental fog. Make sure you’re drinking filtered water throughout the day. If you work in a warm environment or sweat often, your body may also need essential minerals like potassium, magnesium, sodium, and calcium. If you drink distilled or reverse osmosis water, be sure to replenish these minerals through diet or supplements. Your brain cannot function at full capacity without proper hydration and mineral balance.

8. Stay Energized and Focused With Proper Corporate Training

Productivity is not about doing more. It’s about doing the right things with the right energy. Taking care of your body and mind sets the stage for better focus, creativity, and performance. If your team is still feeling stuck or burnt out, a holistic chiropractic approach can help support your body’s natural function and bring balance to your day-to-day routine.

Dr. Ariel Thorpe, DC, an English speaking chiropractor in Tokyo offers corporate trainings to international companies on workplace and worker productivity. Former clients and venues include Uber, E&Y, Lululemon, Princeton Alumni Club of Hong Kong, SoHo House, and UBS. For more information on how we can help you get the most out of your Tokyo team, contact Dr. Ariel directly here.