When it comes to productivity techniques, we all struggle to implement any of them. We know that we need help, but life starts “lifeing” and we can’t seem to get a moment to attempt to implement or find a technique for that matter. Here are some ideas that you can try and see if they work for you. Give it your all and actually try to implement at least one of them. I’m just asking you to try, that is all.
Prioritize Tasks with the Eisenhower Matrix:
Use the Eisenhower Matrix to categorize tasks based on urgency and importance. Focus on completing high-priority tasks first, delegate or schedule less urgent tasks, and eliminate non-essential tasks to maximize productivity.
This seems so simple right? Sometimes though, we feel like everything is urgent at the same time. In order to implement this strategy though, you will have to place all your to-do’s in order of importance and stick to it, see it through. That is the only way this can work. I struggled with this at first, but after some time I had to let go and make each task wait util I completed the one before it. I had anxiety about this, but it worked out at the end, so I like this one.
Try the Pomodoro Technique:
Break your workday into focused intervals (typically 25 minutes) followed by short breaks. Use a timer to stay disciplined and maintain focus during each work session, allowing for increased productivity and reduced procrastination.
Now with this one, I enjoyed, but at first, I wasn’t getting anything completed. I was trying to complete large tasks in 25 minutes. There is no way I would have been successful by rushing to complete a monster in 25 minutes. So, I had to chop my tasks down further and make them smaller. Then I started to feel better, because I was completing more tasks that added up to larger tasks that would have taken longer had I tried to do it all in one go. I ended up liking this one. It seemed like that 25 minutes went by fast though.
Set SMART Goals:
Define specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals to guide your daily activities and track progress. Break down larger goals into smaller, actionable tasks to maintain momentum and stay motivated.
This is a popular one that a lot of people promote, but this one allowed me to spend more time on things than I should. I needed a time limit for this in order for this to work. Yes, I know you can create your own time frame, but I didn’t want to put anymore thought into it. I need a simple strategy that can help me knock out this long list of todo’s. I had to form a beat the clock scenario for myself. If I do not use time as a boundary, I will lag on getting more done in less time. So although I like this one. I don’t use it often.
Batch Similar Tasks Together:
Group similar tasks together and allocate dedicated time blocks to complete them efficiently. For example, schedule time for responding to emails, making phone calls, or tackling administrative tasks in consecutive intervals to minimize context switching and increase productivity.
This works wonders. I do this when I use the Pomodoro Technique. When you can knock out a few tasks in one sitting, that just brings you life. I jump for joy when I get 5 things done vs. 2. This is a no brainer for me and I think that sometimes we automatically do this in life anyway. As women, multitasking is in us. We can shine while juggling 19 things and make it look flawless. So, this idea I love and do all the time. It saves so much time.
Use Time Blocking:
Allocate specific time blocks in your schedule for different activities, including focused work, meetings, and personal tasks. By proactively managing your time and creating dedicated blocks for different tasks, you can enhance productivity and reduce distractions.
Oh rapture!!!!! Time blocking is the G.O.A.T. It helps so much with staying on task. Granted, there are times when we will go over a little. However, if you do your best to stay on task, you can get a lot done. For example, in order to stay on top of cleaning my house without taking all day. I have a power hour each day for each room. Gone are the days when I’m spending all day cleaning. Those “Leave it to Beaver” days are gone forever. Just kidding!! No, I’m Not. Those days have retired.
Automate and Delegate Routine Tasks:
Identify repetitive tasks that can be automated using tools and software, such as email filters, scheduling apps, and project management platforms. Delegate non-core tasks to team members or virtual assistants to free up time for higher-value activities.
Delegation! Man did I struggle with this. You know that feeling that no one can do it like you? I still have moments where I feel that way. It has to be done though. You can’t do everything. That is a recipe for the ultimate burnout. I started with small things that I didn’t want to do in order to become accustomed to allowing someone else to handle what I feel is a me task only. It gets easier though. Some things I had to source because I just did not want to learn past the basics. It’s up to you how you want to play it. Just remember, even though us women can do everything, it does not mean we have to or even should.
Limit Distractions:
Minimize distractions in your work environment by turning off notifications, setting boundaries with colleagues, and creating a designated workspace free from interruptions. Use tools like website blockers and focus apps to stay focused and maintain productivity.
Now, with this one, I had to remove the TV out of the room. I play instrumental music low, and I am able to work. I have to close the door and at the time of this post, I work 5 hours out of the day and that is it. I do not go over that. I don’t work on the weekends. I have my phone set on one notification for all my emails for the day and that comes in at 7pm. I do not check emails after 10 am. So, as you can see that is a morning only task for me to view and respond to emails from the night before in the morning. Otherwise, those emails will be popping in all day and night long and I will be tempted to check it. That is not productive it is distracting. So, think about what you could do to eliminate as many distractions as you can.
I truly hope this list has given you some ideas on what you can do to to be more productive in your day-to-day as well as in your business.
Love y’all bye! 😁😁😁❤️
Tysheena