Tips to Maximize Productivity

01. Prioritize your to-do list

I use this undated daily planner to help me prioritize and schedule out to-do items and then bring in Asana (new to me as of last year) for broader business-related items. I'm one of those people who prefers both a written and a digital component in my routine to help me stay organized! Once I have a list of items in order of most to least important, I know what absolutely must get done that day versus the tasks that can wait. This not only helps me stay focused, but eases my anxiety of feeling overwhelmed by an endless to-do list.

02. Time block

Have you ever sat down to complete a project or task and then get completely sidetracked? Whether you get easily distracted or are constantly getting interrupted by texts, emails, etc. it helps to set designated amounts of time to fully focus on one thing. Believe it or not, multitasking is not very productive. I use my Amazon Echo to keep track of time and set reminders for myself (plus play some nice jazz in the background). That way, I can fully devote my attention to one thing at a time.

03. Get comfortable saying "no"

If you're a "yes" person and constantly find yourself taking on more than you can handle, then it's time to get comfortable saying "no" or at least "let me check my schedule and get back to you". This can be a tough one for all the people pleasers out there (including myself). However, if you learn to say "no" to the things you don't want or have time to do, then you can devote more energy to the things that are most important to you. It's okay to set healthy boundaries and when you do, others will respect your time as well.

04. Utilize your "do not disturb"

We all know our phones can be a major source of distraction. Ever found yourself scrolling on social media just to realize an hour (or more) had passed... yeah, we've all been there! If you find yourself reaching for your phone when you're lacking motivation or hit a tough part during a task, then try setting up a "do not disturb" or time limit on your social media consumption. If you find this challenging, try going for a short walk or getting some fresh air instead. Sometimes, all you need is to clear your head. Or, try to get to the bottom of why you're reaching for your phone to begin with.

05. Get creative with your schedule

Being intentional about how you spend your time will make you more productive, and help you integrate both your personal and professional goals. If you commute to work, try listening to a podcast while you drive. Want to exercise more? Try taking that work call while you go for a walk. If connecting with family is a priority for you, call a loved one while you wait for your morning latte. A lot of the times we can kill two birds with one stone just be getting creative with our schedules.

06. Have a space that inspires you

I know a lot of us work from home now, so whether you have an office or not, having a space that inspires you will make you feel more motivated and productive. At the beginning of each year, I like to clear off my desk, throw out those old notepads, clean out my inbox, and stock up on fresh new supplies. Cue all the chic pens, notepads, skicky notes and office supplies please! Who else loved school supplies shopping as a kid? Anyway, I love this acrylic dry erase board and I'm never without my Blue Light glasses! Who says your work space can't be fun?