5 step guide to a more productive day
In this week’s blog post, we’ll be looking at my simple 5 step guide to help you have a more productive day and smash that to do list!
I always turn to these tried and trusted tips when I feel my productivity lagging. These 5 steps help me feel in control of my to do list and ultimately get more out of my day. I hope these help you as much as they have helped me!
Step 1: Define the tasks
Write down one task you need to complete this week. For example: I need to create project documentation for client.
Step 2: Break the task into smaller parts
Breaking a large task into smaller parts makes it feel more manageable. For example: “create project documentation for client” might sound daunting but, breaking it into smaller sections seems easier to handle.
Task Parts Time Required
Draft plan on a page 30 min
Prepare project budget 1 hour
Create Project Plan 1 hour
Step 3: Create a schedule
Schedule the work for a specific time and stick to it. Be realistic about the time you need to complete everything - it’s better to over estimate than underestimate, otherwise you will end up rushing and feeling overwhelmed.
Step 4: Prepare for the task
Jot down how you will prepare yourself to work on the task:
Eliminate distractions
List distractions you can eliminate before starting. For example, silencing your personal phone or working from a room without a TV.
Plan for unavoidable distractions
Prepare for situations such as a neighbour dropping by.
If Amy drops in, then I will say “Let me get back you later today after I’ve completed these tasks”.
Materials and supplies
List the items you will need to complete the task. I always find I need to write down ideas and reminders to myself on paper, but never have a pen to hand!
My list would go something like this:
Glasses
Ballpoint pen
Notebook
Highlighter pen
It’s a very basic list but you can save a lot of time before you start working, if you have all the materials you need to successfully complete the task to hand.
Physical preparation
Consider all the actions you will need to do in order to be ready for the task.
Here are mine:
I am going to commit to a time to begin work and hold myself accountable.
Have a good breakfast and make myself a strong coffee before I get cracking on this task!
Open the window (I hate working in stuffy rooms!)
Ensure the room is well lit, so your eyes don’t get tired.
I know these sound quite simple but take some time to have a think about what you can do to create the optimal working environment for yourself.
Step 5: Imagine the outcome
Many people underestimate the positive feelings that come from completing a task. Describe the benefits of completing the task and how you will feel as a result.
Once I have prepared the project documentation, my client will be happy and I will feel a sense of achievement.
As you can see, these are all very simple steps but ones we often neglect. Stopping to think and consider these makes for a more productive day and successful output.