There are several factors that come into play that determine productivity. One factor is knowing what you want. Another is knowing what it will take to get you there. But even then, having those two pieces of the puzzle still doesn’t guarantee success unless you make sure you are productive with your time and energy.
Being productive means that you are actually getting things done. You may create a to-do list at the start of each day or week but how many of those items are you actually crossing off that list? If it’s a long list, maybe it’s not many and that can be overwhelming. That’s when procrastination and uncertainty about how to begin set in, which, of course, can hinder productivity.
So, what can you do to increase productivity and make sure everything gets done?
1. Plan Ahead & Set Goals
This is a big one. As we talked about earlier, one of the keys to success is knowing what you want and what it takes to get there. You can waste so much time each day by not knowing exactly what your end goal is and what your action steps should be. Take some time at the beginning of each year, each month, each week, and each day and figure out what your goals are. From there, make an action plan for how you’re going to hit each goal. You won’t believe the amount of time you will save once you have a solid plan in place and don’t have to question every next step.
2. Tackle the most important tasks first
When it comes to managing your to-do list, it’s always important to cross off the most important tasks first. Think of the 80/20 rule. 20% of your tasks are going to contribute to 80% of your success. Take a look at your list and determine what tasks will equal the most productivity. Honestly, they may be the most challenging, but accomplishing them first will give you more motivation to take on the smaller projects at the end. Plus, think of how good you will feel when you know that the hardest tasks are behind you.
3. Stop procrastinating
It might sound like this is easier said than done but it’s really quite simple. Procrastination only leads to wasted time. And when we get right down to it, time is money. The more time we spend on one project, the less time we have to spend on another. This means that not everything is going to get done which equals decreased productivity. So, when you know what needs to be done, go after it. Don’t second guess yourself or think about how long it might take you. Get it done and you’ll feel better when you can cross it off your to-do list and move on to the next task.
4. Have the right systems in place
Systems make business better. Why? Well, think about something in your business that could be automated or made more productive with proper systems setup. Some of the most common are social media, emails, payroll…the list goes on. These are tasks that you know need to be done to contribute to the success and overall productivity of your business but if you have the right systems in place, you won’t have to spend as much time on them. The same thing goes for why it’s important to create SOP’s. When you know what needs to be done, you’ll spend less time questioning what to do which will allow you to focus on getting other important tasks done.
5. Fill your tank
This might not be one you think of often but it’s one of the most important tips. You can’t expect to be productive when you’re running on fumes. As they say, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Figure out what energizes you and fills you up. That may be something as simple as taking a walk or getting some exercise. It might be spending some quiet time alone or catching up with a friend. Whatever that looks like for you, it’s important that you take that time for yourself so that you can come back ready to tackle whatever needs to be done.
The bottom line? Implementing these tips will increase productivity within your business and your life which means you can get more done in less time and therefore, achieve the growth and success you desire.
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