I have to admit, I am obsessed with being my most productive self all the time. So much so, in fact, that I had to schedule relaxation time into my day…which ironically enough helps my productivity level even more.

There are many books and concepts out there on productivity and how to maximize your energy and time. One of my favourite books is ‘The Productivity Project’ by Chris Bailey, where he tested theories of productivity for an entire year. The book has many insights into the popular theories of productivity and how to be most effective.

These are my favourite productivity enhancers:

  • Keep an energy log. Bailey recommends completing a daily energy log to see when your peak energy levels are throughout the day. I did this and discovered that I am most alert around 2pm so I schedule my most arduous tasks during that time.
  • Break each task down into single action steps. I’ve found that being able to check more things off my to-do list tricks my mind into thinking I have accomplished more. For example, ‘clean my apartment’ might be further translated into:
    • Dust and sweep the bathroom
    • Dust and sweep my bedroom
    • Clean up the kitchen
  • At the end of your work day, write your top three goals for tomorrow so that way you know what your intentions are straight away. I recently adapted this technique and it’s been helpful in my writing, so I’m not just staring at the screen wondering what to work on first.
  • Break it down. The Pomodoro Technique (developed by Francesco Cirillo) is when you set your timer to work hard on one project for 25 minutes, then take a short 5 minute break, and repeat for 4-5 times, then have a longer break of 15-30 minutes. Everything seems less daunting when it’s in 25 minute increments.
  • Reward yourself for getting things done! It doesn’t have to be big things, rather it could a flavoured coffee or 10 minutes of free reign Pinterest time. (Set a timer though before you get sucked into the vortex!)

Life is all about getting things done…and having balance to enjoy each moment. Strike a balance that works for you!

About the Author

Tara is a wellness Newsfeedger for the Local Biz Magazine who is in the process of writing her memoir on finding hope and meaning while living with a mental illness. Tara loves the concepts of positive psychology, incorporating them into every aspect of her life and spreading the message on the science of well-being.