Some of my favorite productivity tips include:
But sometimes the secret to being more efficient is knowing what NOT to do. I’ve compiled a few productivity to-don’ts that will help you get more done. Read more
One of the things on my to-do list is to write back to readers who e-mail me list-making questions. It’s actually one of my favorite things to do. I recently got an email from Josh and I thought his questions were ones that other people might have as well. Here goes:
I do enjoy making lists and find them helpful. However, one thing that I get stuck with is how to set up my list and how many to make/where to keep them. Do you just use one notebook for all lists? Do you color code? I often find that I get stumped with this step. I want my lists to look presentable and not just write stuff any and everywhere. How do you set yours up? Read more
I used to think I was a great multitasker. But then I learned that it’s impossible to multitask. It’s possible to juggle a lot of projects at the same time but not to multitask. If you multitask you never really focus on the task at hand so your attention is scattered. It can be very dangerous too — how many times have you been driving and then realize you don’t even know how you got to your destination because your mind was elsewhere. Being mindful of what you’re currently doing will help you accomplish more.
Here’s how to do it:
1. Just Say It: Sometimes when I have a hard time getting started I will repeat in my head over and over the task that I want to accomplish. “Write tomorrow’s blog, write tomorrow’s blog, write tomorrow’s blog.” By doing this – I stop and listen to myself and actually start the project I want to do. It’s like you’re clearing out all the other noise and reminding yourself what needs to get done. You need to train yourself to focus.
2. One Thing at a Time: Paying attention to each task you do will make you more efficient. Instead of bouncing around from one thing to another – finish what you’re doing first.
I recently produced an interview with Rep. Tim Ryan about his book “A Mindful Nation,” which is all about mindfulness and being more aware of your surroundings. He told a story about UCLA coach John Wooden whose first lesson to his players would be how to put on their socks. He did this so they paid close attention to the act of putting on their socks before each game – that way they would avoid getting blisters. It’s the simple things that are the most important.
3. Reward Yourself: It’s OK to bribe yourself every now and then. ☺ Sometimes all you need to do is “talk yourself into” doing one task. For instance – if you finish cleaning out the garage you can get a manicure or massage for your hard work.
4. Make Time for Yourself: Be sure to schedule “me” time on your to-do list. This could be watching your favorite show or listening to music. But by putting yourself on your to-do list and not worrying about any other task during that time – you will be much happier and productive.
Do you sometimes feel like you are being bullied by your to-do list? You’re not alone. Even I feel that way sometimes. But the key is taming the to-do list to allow you to check everything off of it. It takes discipline and know how. I was recently interviewed about to-do lists and how to take charge of your to-do list.
A lot of times people set themselves up for failure with their to-do lists right off the bat. What I mean by that is that you put too much on your list. You put unrealistic things on the list that you can’t possibly accomplish! Don’t do that!
Here are few things that will help you get your to-do list done:
1. Make bite-sized lists
2. Be realistic
3. Ask for help
4. Don’t mix your lists — to-dos aren’t the same as life lists. Know the difference
5. Read my other tips here
It’s always interesting to find out how other list makers do it…make lists, I mean. What works for one person might not work for someone else. I think it takes some trial and error to figure out what works best for you and will make you most productive. Here is a guest blog from Darla Arni — she’s a speaker and author: Read more