We so easily fall into the trap of getting so busy, with so much. Being busy is fine, but how productive are we in our busyness?
May people have this problem and it often boils down to time management. Managing what you do by setting aside time to do it in. This may take some time to put in place, but in the long run, you will save alot of time and increase your productivity.
I was reading an article written by Brian Tracy and thought I would pull out just a few ideas on how to increase your productivity.
Prepare in advance
Whether it be the day before, or early in the morning before you start work, prepare your list of things you need to get through in that day. And once you have that list, prioritise what needs to be done based on the most urgent and important tasks first.
I always found that preparing for the next day was the last thing I did before leaving work (or in my case shutting down for the day). It is quiet, no interruptions, no phone calls and you can focus better. And if you prepare the day before, you will get a better night’s sleep knowing everything is set up.
Schedule your time
By scheduling your time you reduce stress and release energy. By organising your day, week and/or month you definitely get a good feeling of control which in turn helps increase productivity throughout your day.
Start early
Mornings are fresh, clear and by starting your day early you can set your day at the speed you wish to work. The more time you take to think and plan, the better organised you will be – not only at work but in every area of your life.
It has been said that many successful people start their day at 05h00 or 05h30 so that they have enough time to think and plan for the day. They are definitely more effective than those who sleep in until the last possible moment. I just love the early mornings.
Improve your organisational skills
Did you know that as much as 30% of working time today is spent on looking for misplaced items? And lost because they have not been filed correctly. That would frustrate me to no end. Get yourself organised. It is so important.
Increase productivity through your prime time
We all have an internal prime time of day – according to your body clock – this is when you are the most alert and productive. For some people this can be morning and for others it can be evening. Find out what is your prime time and use it productively.
If you are working for yourself and you find that you just can’t get through everything and you are running out of time and missing deadlines, and you desperately need someone to get you organised – then another alternative to help you is to hire a Virtual Assistant.
#productiveday #productivity #busyprofessionals