Stress-free Productivity

While stress-free productivity sounds like an oxymoron, it is in fact achievable with a little organization. You can be busy, but by keeping things balanced you can get things done without the stress. Here is my trusted, time-tested method to accomplish any task.

1) FOCUS

Focus on one task at a time. This is the most important step. When you take the time to focus on one task, you will get it done more quickly and efficiently. By paying careful attention you will finish it faster than if you were multi-tasking, and minimize your chances of making a mistake, (which will also save you time). I recommend getting into the zone with some good background tunes, that suit your mood or the type of task you are doing.

*Tip: Put your phone away somewhere where it is not in view, and/or put it on silent and check it once an hour.

2) SCHEDULE

Have a routine and schedule time for specific tasks on your to-do list, including work you can do independently. Knowing when you are most alert, determine what time of day is best for certain types of tasks. This is especially helpful if you have multiple roles or side hustles, it will ensure you devote enough time to your various activities. When you block out time for independent tasks like you would with any other appointments or meetings, you are more likely to work on them, just as planned.

*Tip: If you’re not sure how long a task will take, time yourself doing something similar and add some extra time for revision.

3) PRIORITIZE

Don’t just rush to get things done. Take a few minutes to think about what must absolutely be done first, and then go do it. Especially if it’s something you don’t particularly enjoy, you don’t want it to follow you around for the rest of the week. If you have simultaneous demands for projects, let clients know that it is a busy time for you and things could take longer, but do everything in the order you have set (any other way will lead to stress). Once you have prioritized, stay one to two days ahead of deadlines. While this may be hard to do in the beginning, once it becomes a habit it will save you a lot of stress, and when any last-minute change (or fun!) pops up, you will have more wiggle room, because the priorities are taken care of, and you can sleep easy.

*Tip: Reward yourself with a little break or a fun activity once you’ve completed a particularly grueling task.

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That’s it! Give it a try and make your week a little lighter!