Whether you’re a leader looking to be the best you can be, an entrepreneur striving to grow a business, an executive looking to take your team’s performance to the next level, or a rising leader seeking advice on increasing productivity, there is one constant—it takes more than just ambition and hard work for sustainable success.
Productivity is not merely about working long hours in the office. Instead, it comprises several daily habits that build over time and ultimately drive tangible results.
In today’s article, I will uncover 12 daily habits that are essential for increased efficiency and productivity. From learning when it is best to delegate tasks to understanding how mindfulness can help improve professional performance—these tips will arm leaders with the tools needed for continued success!
Tip 1: If you’re working from home or in job search mode, set yourself a start and finish time.
Letting the day slip away when you work from home or in job search mode is easy. There are a lot of distractions that you may encounter. To be productive and get things done, setting yourself a work time for each day is important. For example, to be most effective, your work day (or job search) should start by 9 am and finish by 5 pm. Stick to a schedule. Your body will begin associating these times with work, and your mindset will follow suit.
Tip 2: Set yourself a “Goal for the Week”
One of the most effective ways to stay on track with your productivity is by setting a weekly goal and a plan to achieve it. The best way to do this is by writing it down and keeping that note where you will see it regularly. The more often you see your goals, the more likely you are to achieve them!
Tip 3: Use a Diary or Calendar to plan your day.
A diary or a calendar will help you manage your time more efficiently and ensure that you’re getting everything that needs accomplishment. Use a to-do list – but make it work with time-blocking habits. Write down everything you must do for the day, including all appointments – prioritise the list and block time in your diary to get those tasks done. Make appointments with yourself – and you’ll see the benefits!
Tip 4: Paper and Pencil – sometimes the old ways still work!
Paper and pen can be a great way to keep track of your day, especially if you’re working with a team. A4 / A5 diaries or notebooks are a great way to write down your thoughts on the go and take notes about phone calls or other conversations happening during the day. By handwriting rather than typing, we “cement” things into our brains and work our “neural pathways,” – which help to keep our brains healthy!
Tip 5: Plan your day the evening before.
If you want to be productive, you need to be intentional about what you do, why you’re doing it, and how long it will take. Write a list of things to do the following day – BEFORE you pack up the day before. Make appointments with yourself (block time) in your diary to get it done. Planning your day gives you a purpose for getting up in the morning, which helps motivate and inspire you throughout the day.
It is essential that you create a daily routine that focuses on productivity to get the most out of your work.
Next week, I’ll share even more tips or daily habits to help you increase your productivity.