How I became productive in less than a month
Introduction
If you're like most people, you probably dedicate hours to working on projects that never get finished. This is frustrating. How can we stop wasting time and start getting more done? The solution is simple: Stop thinking about it so much.
Step 1: Clear distractions.
To start, you need to clear all distractions. Turn off notifications on your phone and computer, and make sure they're off while you work. Turn off the TV, radio, or anything else that might distract you from the task at hand. And if there are people around who are likely to interrupt—like roommates or family members—tell them not to disturb you for 10 minutes by blocking off an hour on their calendar!
Step 2: Do something you already know how to do.
It’s important to remember that there is no such thing as a purely new skill. You’re using your existing knowledge to learn something new, so you can do it faster and better than before.
For example, if you think “I have no idea how to code,” then choose a programming language that you know well — like Python or Ruby — and try making an app that brings together what you already know about those languages (e.g., their syntaxes) with some basic user interface elements like buttons and text boxes. Or if you are in marketing or sales and want to improve your skills in these areas but don't have time for formal training programs or classes at the moment: make a list of all the things being discussed at meetings right now; look up these terms online; see which ones apply best with your current job responsibilities — then write down 3-5 actionable steps related specifically towards each topic on this list (including who needs approval/information from whom).
The point here isn't necessarily what exactly gets done during this step--it's rather meant as a way of thinking about productivity differently than simply having more hours available each day (which really doesn't help anyone).
Step 3: Set a timer for 10 minutes.
Set a timer for 10 minutes.
This is only the second step and you’re already being asked to do something else! But don’t worry, it will be worth it later and you can trust me on that. I set my timers on my phone or computer because these are two devices that I use at least once every hour throughout the day (watching YouTube videos and checking emails). If you want something more tangible yet still digital, get yourself one of those old-school kitchen timers and place it somewhere where other family members won’t see or disturb you (that way they won't think that you've gone bonkers). You could also buy yourself an actual watch with multiple alarms if this kind of thing appeals more to your taste. Just remember: whatever timer mechanism works best for YOU is what should be used!
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Step 4: Channel all your efforts into one task.
A common mistake people make when they try to be productive is trying to do multiple tasks at once. This can occur when you shift your attention between tasks, or when you think about what you have to do next and after that.
The solution? Focus on one task at a time by not switching between them or thinking about what comes after and before it.
The less you think about doing something, the more you'll get done.
It's the same principle behind a lot of productivity advice—if you want to get things done, stop over-thinking them and just do them. A lack of planning is not a recipe for disaster; it's a way to make progress.
The less time you spend thinking about something before doing it, the more likely you'll be able to complete those actions once they're started. That doesn't mean there isn't room for thoughtful analysis and reflection later on in the process (as there always should be), but first things first: get your feet wet by taking action without hesitation or worry!
Conclusion
I hope these tips helped you with your own productivity. If you enjoyed this article, please share it on social media so I can get feedback from other readers!
Here are some methodologies for time and attention management that might be very useful: