The Ultimate Guide To Productivity

Whether you’re aiming to check all those must-dos off your list for your internship or crank through a final exam, ensuring that your environment is just right can boost your productivity. Perhaps you’ve always been a homebody who enjoys hitting the books from your couch, or maybe you’re super-social and prefer the buzz of a collaborative space, like WeWork. Either way, chances are your zodiac sign — as well as the element under which it falls (meaning fire, earth, air, or water) — influences what you see as the best space for success.

As a dynamic, adventure-seeking, and action-oriented fire sign, you’re always on-the-go. Staying in one place, tethered to a desk is your idea of a snoozefest. You’d much prefer to get out and engage with the world around you. This might mean that you’re the queen of stowing your laptop in a backpack and diving into your studies at your nearest WeWork location after a grueling bootcamp workout. Or you’re cramming for that upcoming exam while taking a spontaneous road trip. The more you can bridge the gap between your super-active lifestyle and your study routine, the more content you’ll be. If you’re an impulsive, competitive Aries, ruled by go-getter Mars, you’re more likely to prefer to switch up your routine based on your mood of the day—or the timing of your workout or that must-watch baseball game. Are you a luxury-loving Leo? Ruled by the bright, confident sun, you do best in a comfortable, lively environment (think working while grazing on a gourmet picnic at a favorite park). And if you were born under wanderlustful Sagittarius, ruled by expansive Jupiter, you need to be able to travel and work simultaneously, so you’ll be happiest when typing away wherever your free spirit takes you.

Things You Need In Your Bag So You Can Study Anywhere

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Please note, depending on your state or city laws and ordinances, indoor activities may be resuming in your area. However, nothing in this article should be taken as an endorsement for outdoor or indoor group activities, as there are still safety concerns and risks involved. The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to COVID-19. For updated information on coronavirus prevention and safety protocols, please visit the CDC website.

If you’re a girl on the go, there are a few essentials you need so you can get to work whenever and wherever. And with the uncertainty that characterizes this year, you need to be more prepared than ever. Joining a reliable, accessible workspace like WeWork is so valuable in keeping you on task in today’s climate. Tap the stars below to see what we’re bringing in our bags. These items will keep you organized and fueled-up for your ultimate productivity.

Water Signs (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces)

Air Signs (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius)

Earth Signs (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn)

Fire Signs (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius)

No matter if you’re in school, working full-time, or starting something of your own, we all want to get the most out of every day. Scheduling your week out ahead of time and getting organized are a few first steps you can take to help yourself be more productive, but what are some tangible tips to really level up on productivity? Here are seven strategies I swear by for living my most productive get-sh*t-done life.

When you hear the word productivity, you may think it means checking all of your to-dos off your list as quickly as possible. But it's actually how consistently you accomplish the tasks you consider the most important ones. Together we're upping our productivity rate with these tips and tricks from Her Campus Editors and our partner WeWork.

Stick to a morning routine that wakes you up almost immediately. For me, it starts with my skincare routine. I recently started ice-rolling my face in the morning, and although it is freezing at first, it de-puffs my skin, leaving me to feel invigorated and awake. This habit stimulates blood flow, so you get more nutrients and oxygen into your skin.

7 Ways To Be More Productive Today

The Study Space For Every Zodiac Sign

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Start your day with something refreshing

Find a physical activity that works to get your body and mind moving. This could be a walk around your block, a virtual workout, or simple stretching exercises. Doing some physical movement in the morning releases hormones that keep you awake and alert, building a strong foundation for a productive day.

Make some moves

Make sure your workspace is organized and not cluttered. When there are fewer items on your desk, there is less to be distracted by, and you’ll be naturally more productive. WeWork’s All-Access membership gives members access to hundreds of locations. From tables and conference rooms to outdoor terraces and rooftops, there is a space where every member can find a spot where they can focus.

Have a plan for where you’ll work

Believe it or not, the food you eat is strongly tied to how efficient your day will be! I make sure to incorporate whole-grain foods into my diet, like oatmeal or toast, which provide natural focus-boosting energy thanks to vitamin B12!

Plan balanced meals to power your day

Write everything down. Making an organized list is one of the best ways to be productive. Not only does it feel great each time you cross something off, but seeing a clear outline of what you need to accomplish will also keep you on track every day.

Make a to-do list

Studies have shown that you will actually have a more productive day if you take occasional breaks. Taking a step back from work increases energy levels by letting your mind reset, so yes, that coffee break is always a good idea. And lucky for current WeWork members (or anyone taking advantage of the free one month trial for new members!), their locations have free coffee all day, every day.

Make sure to take breaks

Set a goal for yourself to look forward to each day. This will help you stay motivated from start to finish. Whether it is starting your day by getting out of the house and visiting a WeWork location, or bingeing your favorite show and ordering takeout after your work is completed, it’s always smart to reward yourself for your hard work.

Give yourself something to look forward to

So there you have it, our top tips for having the most productive day ever.

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What Every Sign Needs to Know

We stan backpacks because they are so easy to keep organized and are much easier to carry. Back problems, who?!

Use a small cross-body bag or cute pencil case to conceal your must-have toiletries, like concealer, a toothbrush, and tampons.

Adding an apple or orange to your bag is a smart snack to power your productivity with natural sugars.

Opting for a hand sanitizer on a key-chain is a great way to make sure you never leave home without this necessity.

Sticky notes are a great way to organize your to-dos at any desk space. Placing sticky notes on the table around your desk can help you stay on track for what you need to accomplish.

By Maressa Brown

As an analytical, pragmatic, goal-oriented earth sign, you find comfort in order and well-laid plans. Disorganization feels like the kind of chaos that sets you up for trouble when you go to put your nose to the grindstone. For that reason, you’ll prefer to have a neat, tidy, dedicated space. A workspace like WeWork is designed with your goals in mind, built to improve focus and inspire greater creativity. Though chances are you’re a serious bookworm, all those titles need to be shelved in a sensible way, and having systems, like a filing cabinet or desk planner, are key to your peace of mind — and productivity. If you’re a grounded Taurus, your ruling planet, sensual, artistic Venus influences your desire to be surrounded by comfortable, pretty accessories and details. Be sure to have that go-to cozy blanket to snuggle up in, that sweet herbal tea you love, and your favorite art hanging on the walls. Born under sensitive, service-oriented Virgo? Ruled by communicator Mercury, you’re a super-communicator whose mind is always buzzing. Being surrounded by not only the tech you need to take care of your to-dos but lots of your favorite books and other go-to resources will keep you firing on all cylinders. If you’re an industrious Capricorn, ruled by taskmaster Saturn, you’re likely all about those spreadsheets and whiteboards. Any kind of visual aid that helps you get clear on and keep track of aspirations and accomplishments will feel especially helpful for you.

As an empathic, slightly psychic, and absolutely family-oriented water sign, you likely find that you work best when you’re comfy and cozy in a space that feels familiar and supportive. In other words, you’re the queen of WFH. Whether you set up shop in your bedroom, living room, or the kitchen (because oh, do you adore the opportunity to cook luscious meals — or at least dig into yummy Postmated eats), you’ll feel grounded and ready to dive into your to-dos when you’re close to loved ones, your BFF roomie, or a beloved pet. If you were born under sentimental Cancer, ruled by the intuitive moon, sharing space with loved ones makes you feel happy and secure. You’re also a born foodie, so making sure you have all your favorite eats and snacks nearby is key. Are you an intense, driven Scorpio, co-ruled by action-oriented Mars and transformative Pluto? Having a dedicated space in your home, which no one else is allowed to touch or tinker with, is integral to your efficiency. Hey, you know what you need to get the job done, so by all means, embrace it. Born under dreamy, artistic Pisces, ruled by spiritual Neptune? You’re especially sensitive to other people’s psychic energy, so making sure you set good boundaries (that “do not disturb” feature on your devices is your friend!) and create a space that feels spiritually nurturing (think candles, soothing colors, ocean sounds) is crucial for you.

As a social, inquisitive, individualistic air sign, you benefit from a communal, collaborative workspace. Being around other people is basically your lifeblood, so being cooped up in your dorm or apartment solo might very well take a toll on your energy. Although you’re happy to jump on Zoom calls as needed or take classes online, you would prefer to collaborate and trade ideas (masked) face-to-face. And because you tend to be spontaneous, you like switching up your surroundings based on your mood or task. WeWork has a variety of workspace types that can help you check all those boxes. If you’re a communicative Gemini, whose ruling planet is information-gathering Mercury, you’re happiest and effective when you’re able to strike up a conversation with others and be a lively, active part of idea-generating meetings. And because you’re so often on-the-go, a WeWork All-Access membership could be a smart bet. If you’re a social butterfly Libra, whose ruling planet is relationship-oriented Venus, you feel most centered when you’re connecting one-on-one with a colleague or study partner. That said, you’re no doubt on a mission to identify smart, safe ways to social distance and talk through your big picture ideas, which quite often emphasize bringing people together and bolstering harmony. Born under community-oriented Aquarius? Working as part of a team is your forte. You want to feel like you’re contributing to the greater good of a group — or the world as a whole. You would thrive if given the opportunity to connect with colleagues or classmates in video-conference equipped meeting rooms.

No matter what element you fall under, you’ll benefit from identifying a set-up that supports your goals. And WeWork offers a space and amenities that speak to every sign. After considering some insight from the sky, you’ll do your best to trust your personal preferences and intuition to guide you to the arrangement that’s right for you.

A tote bag is one of the sleekest ways to carry a laptop. Choose one with exterior pockets so you can avoid items getting ‘lost’ at the bottom of your bag.

A granola bar is an easy way to fuel-up during a busy day of work or study. If you’re a WeWork member, pair yours with a cup of their free hot coffee!

Even though most of your work is probably done on a laptop, making a to-do list in an old-fashioned notebook is a great way to take a break from your screen-time.

Even if you’re working outside, always remember to bring a mask!

Joining WeWork is a great option with hundreds of locations where you can work and study away from distractions this semester.

Especially if you’re working at an outdoor coffee shop or a co-working space, don’t forget your noise-canceling headphones for taking calls and listening to your favorite study playlist.

If you’re a member of a co-working space, don’t forget your pass! WeWork is a great option with hundreds of locations where you can work and study away from distractions this semester. Interested in checking it out?! New members are eligible for a free one month trial here.

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WeWork could be for you! When you join, your monthly membership fee will unlock access to hundreds of locations with productivity essentials like high-speed wifi, phone booths, printers and complimentary refreshments.

Interested in finding a new dedicated space to work or study!?

By Madeleine BokAn

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Here is what you need to know about the ultimate study space for you, based on your zodiac sign and element.

Editor: Madeleine Bokan Designer: Addie Abujade Models: Isabella Hurlbut, Madia Bestman Photographer: Kalias Producers: Colin Olsen, Madeleine Bokan Her Campus Media 2020