my productivity system
the method to avoid madness
Write things down - I may be a bit old-fashioned but I live by a planner. You may think you can remember all the things you need to do during the day or for the week but the reality is you probably won’t. We are constantly being pulled in different directions and can easily become distracted with a new task. Organize your thoughts on a sheet of paper or for those paperless write it down on your digital planner. This will make sure nothing slips through the cracks. Some people have several notebooks and/or planners but for me consolidating is key. Having all my tasks, events, deadlines, projects, etc. in on place keeps things simple. Professional or personal items, it is all in one place. Since I house it all in one planner, I have found color coding as a fun and visually appealing way to organize the different categories of “to dos”. Of course there are times where I don’t have my planner with me but I still make sure to jot things down as they come to me. Honestly, I store most of my blog post concepts on the “notes” app or my grocery list. BUT, the only way the thoughts on my “notes” come to life on the blog is due to the planner.
Prioritize - Analyze your task list. Consider each task's deadline and importance. My partner introduced me to the Stephen Covey matrix - If you are a visual person you will find this matrix incredibly helpful. Once I have analyzed my workload I then transfer the items to my planner in the appropriate chronological order for completion. If you are fortunate enough to have someone help you out, don't be afraid to delegate.
Block time effectively - When you have a big task or major project it may seem intimidating. However, these major projects usually are well anticipated. Once you have given yourself or someone else has given you this big task break it out throughout the week or weeks. Fill the gaps in your calendar to dedicated time in working at this bit by bit.This will also help you feel less overwhelmed and set you up for success. Make sure to leave time to spend time with yourself. It is so important for your mental health to spend time to check in with yourself. It is easy to get lost in your work and goals and forget to treat yourself. Pencil in "me" time and pamper yourself. You deserve it!
One task at a time - As I mentioned, there should be an order in completion. I am a huge believer in one step at a time for all aspects of my life. There are times where you may be in the middle of an email when a coworker texts you to grab lunch and you decide to get back to it later, next thing you know the email just ends up living in your drafts. I suggest to finish what is in front of you so you can focus and hopefully enjoy your next "to do". Even those smaller tasks (making my bed, cleaning Dolce's litter box, eating greens) are still victories. One of the best feelings is confidently checking one thing off the list.
Tidy up - With most people working from home it is important to have a designated space to focus. For me personally, I try to rarely work from bed. It is important to mentally and physically separate work from personal life to keep that nice balance. This ties to my belief in everything needs a home. Even something so simple like leaving your keys/wallet in the same place. You will thank yourself on the day you are running late. I can't tell you how many times I ended up running late because I couldn't find my keys or glasses. Now back to tidy a space - physical clutter can then lead to mental clutter. Don't let paper or clothes pile up and cloud your focus. Take 5 - 10 minute at the start and end of your day to maintain a clean and organized work and sleep space. I also love a monthly purge at the office. This includes old emails - strive for the 0 inbox. If it was from six months or more just trash it. In terms of my personal life, every six months I do a closet clean out. I also love to de-clutter my wallet. Tossing those receipts and using all that change to get a latte is an awesome way to get your caffeine in and have a lighter bag! Declutter regularly, you will notice the difference.
Rest - Most nights I try to be in bed by 9:30 PM. I may read a bit, talk to my partner or just think about my day as I am laying there but the point is I get my body ready to rest. Getting to bed early will allow you to truly reset and tackle tomorrow effectively. We are in front of screens constantly - Work, Facetime, Netflix, Instagram, Goodness + Wellness ;) it is important that we rest our eyes and bodies. I promise you will feel the difference in your energy and productivity when you get a quality night sleep.
Stick to the plan - Consistency is everything.
