When you get to the end of your day, do you feel as though you've hardly accomplished a thing? Productivity can ebb and flow, but if you struggle to complete important tasks and often wonder where the time went, there are ways you can set yourself up for more success. Certain choices can help you enjoy a more productive day and, when they become habits, a more productive life.

1. Energize and Nourish Your Body
First things first: without enough energy, there's no way you'll be able to get everything done in a timely manner. Providing your body with what it needs to feel its best can help you stay focused and determined. Breakfast is an important start and can set the tone for your day, so choose a good variety of options that help you feel satisfied and alert, not sluggish and bloated. Opt for lean protein, fiber-rich whole grains, and fruits and vegetables full of antioxidants and vitamins. These kinds of foods, along with a high-quality fiber powder can help you stay satiated as well, so you're not distracted by untimely hunger.

2. Get an Early Start
Whether you work from home or in an office, it's important to give yourself plenty of time in the mornings to prepare for the day. If you can barely make it out the door without being late on a routine basis, it's time to set your alarm clock a little earlier. Give yourself enough time to have at least ten minutes to yourself to relax and clear your mind. You should also make sure your morning routine allows you to practice self-care in a way that helps you feel presentable and prepared to take on the day. These practices can support better concentration and drive.

3. Make a Daily To-Do List
Lists are excellent motivational and organizational tools and you should make at least one each day to help you prioritize your tasks. Start with a rough draft that includes everything you must and want to do in the next 24 hours. Then, sort it by placing the most important elements at the top. Do a final sort by starting with the most difficult options in order of importance. This is one of the most effective ways to plan your day, and crossing each item off your list can be rewarding, so you're more likely to keep at it.

4. Take Breaks the Right Way
Running yourself into the ground can be exhausting, and overworking yourself without breaks can actually hamper your overall productivity. Schedule breaks into your day, but make sure they don't set you up for failure. For example, telling yourself you're going to scroll through social media or stream your favorite show for just 15 minutes can easily turn into an hour wasted. Keep your breaks short; a five- to ten-minute break every hour is a good goal. Use that time to drink some water, take a quick walk, practice meditation, or have a short chat with a coworker.

5. Tackle One Task at a Time
Multitasking is often glorified in today's society, but it isn't always a useful or healthy practice. Rather than having too many irons in the fire, keep your task list as simple and straightforward as possible. Before you start something new on your to-do list, complete what you already began first. You'll likely save time and enjoy better outcomes while maintaining optimum concentration levels.

6. Know When to Call It Quits
Being productive takes energy and perseverance, but if you work to the point of exhaustion, you're likely to experience burnout in the near future. By setting limits and choosing to end your day at a certain time, no matter what you've accomplished, you allow your body and mind to get the rest they need to recover and work hard again the next day. Keep stress under control and listen to your body's cues for when it's time to draw the line.

If you want to get more done on a regular basis, give these tips a try. These and other positive lifestyle choices can help you make the most of every day.