Busy people everywhere are in search of ways to increase productivity so that they can accomplish what they desire, and still have time to live life. As an avid productivity podcast listener and book reader, I could pass on lists of expert advice from the best in the industry.
Instead, I’m going to share what’s worked for me – and I’ve tried a LOT of different methods to increase productivity. Everyone is different, so what works for me, may not work for you… but it may.
Here’s the easiest productivity hacks ever.
- Clear Your Space (and Your Head)
There’s some scientific reason that has to do with visual clutter and the effect it has on neuropathways and such, but my reason is more simple. Less stuff in front of you, means less ways to be distracted. One project = one clear focus for my brain. So the next time you sit down to work, clear the desk of any unnecessary paperwork, files, sticky notes, etc. and simply lay out in front of you the work you are currently focused on.
- Shut Off Notifications
All notifications. For real. Email, social media, and texts. By silencing the alerts, you can focus entirely on the task at hand, without the steady interruptions of what someone else is doing or working on at that time. Let them worry about them, while you focus on you.
- Set a Timer
Legit. I found that when I set a timer for myself, my brain does a better job focusing on what it needs to, knowing that when the timer beeps, a break (and perhaps a small reward) awaits. I’ll use a timer for tasks that will last longer than 45 minutes. But perhaps even shorter tasks can be tackled this way.
- Stay Inspired
Okay, so this sounds contradictory to the first hack, but by displaying something nearby that is inspirational, you may find that you’re able to focus and get more done. This could be a picture of your family, a favourite vacation destination, inspirational quote, or anything that inspires you.
These are the 4 tricks I use on a consistent basis to stay productive and get stuff done, distraction-free. Have a productivity hack that works for you? Please pass it on! I’d love to hear other ideas to increase productivity!
xox,
