Productivity isn’t about being busy all the time, it’s about getting things done in the most time-efficient way. When you are productive with the things that need to be done, then you will have more time for doing the things that you really want to do. So, let’s be productive and get right to it!

Know your energy cycles

We all have them. Some of us are morning people, some work best in the afternoon. Knowing the most productive times for you is a good place to start planning out a productive day. Save your most difficult tasks for the times when you are most productive.

Multi-tasking is for the birds

Focus is the name of the game for productivity. Before you start your day, make a list of what needs to be accomplished in order of importance and then block out time for each task. Take breaks in between for a walk, a snack, or a chat with friends. Then move on to the next task on the list. Remember, if you feel your energy draining or your mind wandering while you are working on a task, it’s OK to take a mini break. You’ll come back more energized and ready to focus again.

Scratch it out

Remember that list of what needs to be accomplished that you created in the previous section? Before you hop in, go over it again and scratch out anything that doesn’t need to be done that day. You can remove these completely or move them to a “Nice to do” section which you can tackle if you find that you’re having a particularly energetic day. Putting too much on your to-do list can be overwhelming and reduce productivity as you worry about making it to the end of your list before you run out of day.

5 Specific productivity strategies that you can start today

These tried-and-true strategies can be applied to your personal and work life to help you be your most productive self. Pick one (or many) that work for you!

• The Pomodoro Technique: Work in focused intervals, typically 25 minutes, followed by a short break. After completing four cycles, take a longer break. This technique enhances concentration and prevents burnout.
• Time blocking: Block off the times you are most productive and put your head down and work.
• Kanban Method: Set up your list in columns like “To-do,” “In progress,” and “Done” to track tasks. Move tasks through the columns as you work on them.
• Batching: Group similar tasks together and complete them during a dedicated time. This minimizes context switching and increases efficiency.
• The 2-minute rule: If something is going to take less than 2 minutes, do it right away, rather than putting it off.

For more info, check out the ivari presents on demand “Productivity Mastery Unveiled” or the accompanying podcast at ivari.ca/podcast.

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