Life moves along faster than ever before, and just thinking about everything we need to get done can make even the strongest women want to run away and hide.
We’ve put together 10 Productivity Tips to help you tame the chaos of your day – so you have more time for the things that really matter.
Tip #1 – Outsource
Find people who can do a job/task better than you and outsource it. Yes, we like to think nobody can do anything better than us but it’s just not true. Check the ego and set your intention to surround yourself with a team who can do it better – and in the process you’ll be happier and look like a total rock star. Be picky in who you outsource projects and don’t be afraid to keep looking until you find the exact, perfect person whether you are looking for help cleaning the bathroom, or launching your next big project.
Tip #2 – Priority First
Complete one significant task “A” task before lunch every day. By getting one big thing out of the way early, you can take a reviving lunch break and start the afternoon fresh, without feeling panicked about that huge to-do on your list. Use your Best Planner Ever to get clear on that top priority task, then schedule time to get it done.
Tip #3 – Limit Email
Checking and responding to emails can literally eat up an entire day. This may be very difficult at first for those used to checking their email every few minutes, but work to limit this to 2-3 times per day. You can even schedule time in your planner to check and respond to emails… then… TURN IT OFF. This allows you more time to focus on high priority projects that will really move the needle on your goals.
Tip #4 – Shorter Meetings
Meetings are necessary and do your best to eliminate any that are not. When a meeting cannot be avoided, do not schedule more time than is really needed. Most meetings are scheduled for a full hour, when they should be 20 minutes, 30 minutes, or 45 minutes max.
Tip #4 – Work In Your Zone
Plan your working hours based on your best times for getting things done. Know that you’re on-point in the mornings? Set this time aside for high priority work, and try and keep it free of meetings or distractions (turn off the email!). Always hit a lull around 3 PM? Plan an hour here every day in your planner for mindless tasks or that “busy” work which doesn’t require as much mental capacity.
Tip #5 – Get Off Internet
Designate internet-free times every week (and yes this includes Facebook!). While a lot of our work does rely on the internet, there are still things we need to get done without it—and these are often the focused “A” tasks we tend to avoid. Turn off the Internet, get off Facebook for a few hours every day and dive into those tasks.
Tip #6 – 1 for 1
If you decide to add a new commitment to your plate, then you must get rid of an existing one. Not only will this keep you from overextending yourself, it will really make you think before taking on new assignments. This process of 1 for 1 ensures you don’t ever add an activity to your plate that is less valuable than something you are already doing.
Tip #7 – Avoid Toxic People
If you discover that certain friends or peers are toxic for your productivity – make an effort to avoid them. Do certain people encourage you to procrastinate? Or derail your efforts? If so, find time to work alone or at times when these people are not around.
Tip #8 – Listen to Music
Did you know the simple act of just listening to music can give you the energy boost you need to get through the day? Use music to boost your productivity, improve your mood, and get yourself in the right mindset to dive in and give it your best.
Tip #9 – Get Outdoors
Getting outside into the fresh air can greatly improve mood and mindset. Plus, Vitamin D from the sun can help stimulate and maximize your productivity. Even on cooler days, the cool, crisp air can perk you up, vitalize your brain, and help you work better. Take short outside breaks – or depending on your work – you can even take your computer, or tablet outside or to your local park and try working there.
Tip #10 – Use the Power of Planning
Regardless of tasks that are personal or professional, the power of planning works for them all. Write out a to-list each day – or the night before. Then, prioritize and organize the list. Make it a habit, every day. This way, you can get started on the most important tasks right away and save time spinning your wheels. Things that are just not that important can slide to another day.
Jennifer