Manage Your Tasks Like a Boss Lady: How To Optimise Your Menstrual Cycle For Peak Productivity

Every month, we girls dread “the week”. The anticipation of having to go through long bouts of sadness, occasional emotional outbursts and of course, excruciating menstrual cramps takes over. This does not crop out to be our sole concern, throughout the month we experience highs and lows in our mood, productivity levels, and so much more. We tend to view our menstrual cycle through a bifocal lens, when it actually entails many essential aspects. By strengthening our understanding of the way our cycle works, we can align the same with our tasks and receive fulfilling outputs. 

Once you’ll understand how your cycle works, you’ll be able to work with it and not against it. You can definitely crib over having your menses but you can simultaneously buckle up and go with the flow to get your tasks done effectively. To shed light on the topic, we at OnlyMyHealth got in touch with an expert, Dr. Archana Dhawan Bajaj. Dr. Archana is a Gynaecologist, Obstetrician and IVF Expert, Nurture IVF Clinic in New Delhi. She says that understanding the variations in energy, mood, and cognitive performance that occur during the menstrual cycle, can help women maximise their productivity at work. Women may utilise the distinct superpowers and skills that each phase of the menstrual cycle delivers by aligning chores and activities with them. 

Also Read: Should You Worry If Your Period Is Light? A Gynaecologist Sheds Light

What is your Menstrual Cycle?

The female reproductive system goes through regular changes called the menstrual cycle, which prepares the body for ovulation and pregnancy. The most noticeable part of this cycle is menstruation, or the monthly period, when a woman bleeds. Menstruation usually starts around puberty, around age 12, and continues until menopause, which happens around age 51.

How To Make Your Menstrual Cycle Work For You And Increase Productivity at Each Stage?

The menstrual cycle has four phases, here’s what you can do to optimise each stage and manage your tasks effectively.

Menstrual Phase (Days 1-5)

The menstrual phase is the start of the menstrual cycle, marked by the loss of the uterine lining and the initiation of menstruation. During this stage, many women feel less energy and increased pain sensitivity. Adding to this, Dr. Bajaj suggests these tips to maximise productivity during this period.

• Prioritise jobs that demand less physical exertion and allow for more relaxation and self-care.
• Focus on activities that promote creativity, reflection, and planning, such as brainstorming, journaling, or strategic thinking.

Follicular Phase (Days 6-14)

Dr. Bajaj says, “As the menstrual flow slows, the body enters the follicular phase, which is characterised by higher oestrogen levels, energy, and vigour. This period is good for taking on challenging work, starting new initiatives, and participating in collaborative activities.” 

She encourages the readers to,

• Make use of their improved cognitive function, creativity, and communication abilities to generate ideas, attend team meetings, and launch strategic projects.
• Use their innate excitement and determination to establish lofty goals and create the framework for future success.

Ovulatory Phase (Days 15-18)

“The ovulatory phase occurs in the middle of the menstrual cycle, when an egg is released from the ovary and oestrogen levels rise. This phase is connected with increased energy, confidence, and aggressiveness, making it ideal for high-stakes meetings, presentations, and negotiations’’, says Dr. Bajaj. 

Here are some tips that she brings to the fore:

• Use your enhanced social skills, charm, and emotional intelligence to cultivate connections, influence choices, and advocate for yourself and your views.
• Use your inherent appeal and charm to leave a lasting impression and attain your goals with ease.

She further adds that during this stage of your cycle, you may feel more maternal. You could appreciate using that energy to babysit for friends, volunteer with a children's or animal group, or organise work-related projects that require mentorship. This is also when you may experience a wave of "baby fever," so be aware that you may have a stronger urge to expand your family solely due to hormones!

Luteal Phase (Days 19-28)

The luteal phase is the last stage of the menstrual cycle, marked by elevated progesterone levels and associated changes in mood and energy levels. Corroborating this, Dr. Bajaj explains, “At this stage, some women may experience premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms, while others feel calm and focused.”

Tips to make the most of this tumultuous phase, as suggested by Dr. Bajaj:

• Customise your job activities to meet your own requirements and preferences during this time.
• Prioritise jobs that involve meticulous attention to detail, analytical thinking, and follow-through, such as data analysis, project management, or administrative duties.
• Self-care methods are also very important during this time!

Also Read: The Luteal Phase Explained: Expert Explains How This Phase Affects Your Fertility Journey

Takeaway

Imagine making the most out of the unique energy each phase of your cycle brings to fuel your ambitions, align with your goals, and create a flow that feels natural and empowering. By leaning into the strengths each phase offers, you can transform how you show up—not just at work, but for yourself. The result isn’t just enhanced productivity; it’s a deep, intuitive connection to your own rhythm that makes each accomplishment more meaningful. Embracing this approach isn’t just about success; it’s about honouring yourself fully, every step of the way!