As a wife, homeschooling mom, and business owner, I have had to find ways to stay productive even on the most hectic days. There are a lot of different strategies I use to keep moving forward and I am sharing my top ones with you! I challenge you to try a couple of them this week and see how they work for you. If you are a really daring person, I would start with tip #2! This one tip transforms each and every day in a positive way. Like anything, you must train your brain to make it a habit. We all have the same goal, business success, and hopefully you share my vision of building a business AND life you love! Because without that, it’s really just work.
1. Scheduling
At the beginning of each month, I take my calendar and schedule out life events and downtime. I then schedule work-related calls and meetings around the blocked off time.
This forces me to not let anyone hijack my schedule. My days are mapped out with time for family and friends and time to stop and enjoy the freedom entrepreneurship brings.
If you are missing important life events due to planning this is for you. Don’t miss your child’s play or school party again due to bad planning. If you aren’t experiencing the freedom you dreamed of with being an entrepreneur, then chances are you’re letting others dictate your schedule.
2. ME Time First
I am not talking about a spa day, shopping spree, or vacation. I am referring to taking the time to work ON my business and not IN it. During my time as an entrepreneur, finding time for this has been really hard. However, once I started this one daily habit everything changed. The first hour every morning is ME time. I don’t allow myself to work on client-related tasks. I also don’t return emails during this time. Instead, I focus on tasks such as marketing, budgeting, and planning for my business. Since I have started taking care of me first, it’s amazing how much more I am able to accomplish.
Since client work must get done, it always does. This process makes sure I also get work accomplished to grow my business. And on those mornings that I wake up without the energy or drive to work at my desk, I make a nice breakfast, do some laundry, write out the grocery list or work on household and family planning. But I NEVER work on client-related tasks.
Good habits can be hard to do on a regular basis, so it’s important to respect the time you have set aside with yourself.
3. Eliminate Distractions
Distractions can be a huge time suck! Email, push notifications, and pop-ups can lead to low productivity. Don’t get stuck in the trap of allowing someone else to determine what you should focus on.
The only notifications that I have set to come through automatically are phone calls and text messages. And if I need total silence, I just turn the phone off.
4. Organization
I have always been an organized person, so in ways, this comes naturally. But I do think this is a trait you can teach yourself if it is not second nature. The organization will allow you to find things easier. You will always know where your last tax return is and where you left your car keys. It also helps me with clarity. I find it hard to think straight if things are a mess around me.
One tool that helps me stay organized is magazine boxes. I found some nice, black, leather ones that fit on my bookcase perfectly. I then use each box for something different. Even my current projects go in these boxes. That way I always know where things are, and my desk isn’t cluttered (well, not too much). When I no longer need items in a box easily accessible, I file the documents in a file cabinet. Then the box is ready to be used for something else.
5. Note Pads Everywhere
I always have a way to write down ideas and ‘to do’s’ by keeping notepads everywhere. I don’t always remember my thoughts, and this helps me stay on track. I keep several notepads at my desk, in the kitchen, on my nightstand, in my purse and anywhere else I can think of. I have written an entire blog post on the spur of the moment on one of these pads.
Some people like to do this electronically, but I find the actual act of writing improves my memory.
6. Hydrate
This might not seem like a productivity hack but believe me, it is and it’s an easy one! I always drink water first thing in the morning. In fact, I don’t allow myself to drink anything else until I have had at least two glasses of water.
Hydration is important for clarity of mind and good health in general. Science shows that hydration has a positive impact on overall cognitive function. So, drink up!
7. Plenty of Rest
I am sure you have heard this but sleep really is important. I try to get at least eight hours each night. My body has always required adequate sleep in order to function at its best. When I am well rested it’s easier for me to focus and have clarity of mind. And don’t forget about mood! My husband and kids are thankful when I am well-rested. (Plus, yawning and rubbing the eyes aren’t attractive and take valuable time, which is counter-productive.)
8. Embrace Software
The right kind of software can increase productivity instantly. I made this my goal in 2018. I examined the tasks that I was doing manually and were taking up the most time. I then found software that automates at least part of those processes. Since doing this, I have saved several hours of time each week.
You can read about my favorite software in this article.
9. Downtime
Taking downtime really helps me to be more productive and creative. Taking time away from the business allows me to clear my head and recharge. There are times I allow myself unscheduled downtime. If I’m in my office and just not feeling it, I walk away for a while. And when I come back my mind is usually in a place where I can focus and produce great results. Because if I am not focused, I am not producing great work and that really is a time waste.
~ Christi is a successful business owner who enjoys traveling and making a mess in the kitchen with her husband and two daughters.
If this article was helpful, leave a comment. You might also like the article 4 Tips to Save Money in Your Business.
The article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as business, accounting, tax or legal advice. Details are subject to change without notice.
Copyright © 2018-2020, Brandon & Christi Rains, Rains Group LLC DBA The Sensible Business Owner, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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These hacks are on point! Thanks for sharing ♥️ ♥️ By any chance you are interested on doing collaborations, you can check out the collaborations portal of Phlanx.com and connect with amazing brands!
Xoxo,
Tiffany
Hi Tiffany, Thanks! They sure work for me! Thanks for the recommendation, I will check it out.
Christi
I love the tip about ME time! Prioritizing working on your business instead of in your business is so important. Last year, I got so focused on client deadlines that I didn’t make time to prioritize my business and as a result some of my goals for my business goals didn’t pan out. I’m definitely making an effort to prioritize my business goals this year!
Hi Jacinta, I am glad you enjoyed the tips! The ME time one has completely transformed my day. It’s all about learning to respect MY time. Good luck with reaching your goals this year! It’s a perfect time to start!
– Christi
Great tips, the tip about me time is so important. It is something we all need to be very aware of!
Hi Nicole, I am glad you enjoyed the article. Yes, the ME time is so important to create a business AND life you love.