How to Get More Stuff Done

Would you like to get more stuff done in less time?

You and I have that in common -- the need to squeeze as much work into a day as possible.

The problem is that working quickly can only take you so far. At a certain point, you hit a wall.

That's a topic I discuss in The Productivity Playbook , a workshop I conduct for organizations around the globe.

One of the tools I promote in the workshop is called the Eisenhower Matrix.

The Eisenhower Matrix is a productivity tool designed to help individuals prioritize tasks based on their urgency and importance.

It was named after Dwight D. Eisenhower, who famously said, "What is important is seldom urgent, and what is urgent is seldom important."

The matrix (seen in the graphic below created by Owaves) categorizes tasks into four quadrants:

1. Urgent and Important (Quadrant I): Tasks that require immediate attention and are crucial to long-term goals. These are typically high-priority items that demand immediate action.
2. Important but Not Urgent (Quadrant II): Tasks that contribute to long-term goals but may not have an immediate deadline. This quadrant emphasizes strategic planning, prevention, and personal development.
3. Urgent but Not Important (Quadrant III): Tasks that seem urgent but do not align with long-term goals. These often involve distractions and should be minimized or delegated to free up time for more important activities.
4. Not Urgent and Not Important (Quadrant IV): Tasks that neither contribute to long-term goals nor demand immediate attention. These are activities that can be eliminated or minimized to focus on more impactful tasks.

By categorizing tasks based on urgency and importance, you can allocate your time and energy more effectively, avoid procrastination, and achieve a better balance between short-term demands and long-term goals.

Napping is Another Productivity Secret Weapon. New research shows that taking a quick nap in the afternoon can supercharge your productivity for the rest of the day.

Here are five science-based reasons why napping can be your superpower:

1. Enhanced Memory and Learning: A study published in the journal "Nature Neuroscience" found that a short nap can significantly improve memory and learning. Napping helps consolidate memories, making it easier to recall information and enhancing the ability to acquire new knowledge.
2. Increased Alertness and Performance: The National Sleep Foundation highlights the positive impact of short naps on alertness and performance. A brief nap (around 10-20 minutes) can provide a quick energy boost and improve cognitive function without causing sleep inertia (that groggy feeling after a longer nap).
3. Stress Reduction and Improved Mood: Research published in the journal "Psychophysiology" suggests that napping can help reduce stress and improve mood. A short nap has been associated with decreased cortisol levels (a stress hormone) and increased relaxation, contributing to a more positive and focused mindset.
4. Enhanced Creativity and Problem-Solving: A study from the University of California, Riverside, found that napping can enhance creative thinking and problem-solving skills. Participants who napped showed improved performance on creative tasks compared to those who stayed awake, suggesting that napping may facilitate cognitive flexibility.
5. Improved Alertness During Night Shifts: For individuals working night shifts or irregular hours, napping has been shown to mitigate the impact of sleep deprivation. A study in the "Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine" found that short naps improved alertness and performance among night shift workers, contributing to overall job performance.

That's all for today.

Oh, one last thing -- I believe you're capable of even more than you give yourself credit for. All you have to do is to change your mindset.

I believe in you.

About the Author: Jamie Turner is an internationally recognized author, professor, consultant, and speaker who has helped employees at The Coca-Cola Company, Holiday Inn, Verizon, Mercedes-Benz and others do a better job leading, managing, and mentoring others. To have him speak at your event or organization, email him at: [email protected]