Boost Productivity: Simple Strategies to Get More Done

Many individuals, myself included, often grapple with the challenge of productivity. Whether it's in our personal, social, or professional lives, there comes a time when we feel like we're not being as productive as we could be. We've likely experimented with various methods and tools to boost our productivity. Whether it's using digital apps, methodologies, or systems, we've all sought to break free from the unproductive fog. In the spirit of sharing, here are some strategies I've adopted over the years that have helped me maintain productivity.

1. Get Organized: Being organized is a crucial step towards enhancing productivity. The good news is you don't need to be super organized in every aspect of your life, just in the areas that matter most to you. Here are three ways I stay organized:

• Clearing my desk: I make it a habit to start each morning with a clean desk by tidying up at the end of the day.

• Color-coding my calendar: This helps me quickly identify different types of appointments and meetings, such as personal commitments, vacations, client meetings, and team meetings

• Organizing my daily schedule: I like to plan my day in three time segments: morning, post-lunch, and after work. Each segment has a specific goal, like a morning walk before lunch or meal prep after dinner.

2. Create a To-Do List: I'm a firm believer in making to-do lists. They give me a sense of accomplishment when I cross off completed tasks. While conventional wisdom advises organizing tasks from most to least important, sometimes, starting with simpler, more manageable tasks can help build momentum and motivation.

1. Set a Timer: I stumbled upon this idea in a random YouTube video, and it's been a game-changer for tackling tasks I'm not particularly enthusiastic about. I set a timer for 60 minutes, and when it goes off, I give myself permission to stop. The goal isn't always to complete the task but to start it, and often I find that I can finish most tasks in less than 60 minutes. This approach has been especially helpful for housework.

A substantial part of my professional journey has been dedicated to boosting productivity, and I've found a select set of strategies that consistently yield positive results. Through this experience, I've realized that simplicity is the foundation of my success. I don't bank on sophisticated apps or intricate systems, I just do what works for me.  

What I've come to understand is that it's essential to unearth a system or a suite of strategies that align with your unique self, that aligns with your individuality.  So, embrace your individuality and find what works best for you.