You might be very busy but are you productive? When you look back on your day, do you have anything to show for your efforts? Very often we get so busy that we don’t take a moment to appreciate our efforts or to make sure we’re being busy for the right reasons. We’re going to take a quick look at how you can be more productive by using structure, setting boundaries, and taking care of yourself.
So, how can you be more productive?
1) Set SMERTIE goals
Setting goals keeps you focussed and moving in the right direction. Read my post on how to set SMERTIE goals.
2) Be present
Set aside specific times in the day when you will check your email inbox and social media accounts. Also, set a limit on how much time you spend online. Don’t let these distract you from the job at hand.
3) Get your kids involved in house chores
This might initially take longer because you have to show them (over and over again) how to do something, but in the long run, this is extremely helpful! Not only does this teach your kids the importance of pitching in, but once you pass the hump, you will appreciate the extra hands. For example, let them pack laundry away, peeling veggies, packing dishes away, sweep the floor, wash the bath, and so on. You get the picture.
4) Be more productive by saying NO
Don’t be afraid to say no to things that will not serve you or your family. It’s okay to set boundaries for how much of yourself you give to others.
5) Reflect on your WHY often
If you want to be more productive, then think about your WHY often. Why are you doing what you’re doing? Why are you waking up each day and working hard? What or who are you doing it for?
Think about why you’re doing that load of laundry. Is it because you love your children and want them to have clean clothes?
Why you’re cooking that meal? Is it because you love your kids and want them to be healthy and nourished?
Why do you work? It is hard, and you often have to remind yourself of why you’re doing it. Your why will ground you and motivate you. And when you are motivated, you will work harder, faster, and be more productive.
6) Wake up earlier to be more productive
There is something I love and hate so much about waking up early! I am so NOT a morning person. But I have been waking up early for a long time now and I have learned to love it. It increases my productivity and benefits my mental health.
A few tips to wake up early:
- Go to bed earlier….. Just do it!
- Set up your coffee or tea the night before so ideally all you have to do is press a button.
- Place your alam clock on the opposite side of the room so you have to get out of bed to shut if off.
- Remind yourself WHY you want to get up early. I often tell myself, on the hard mornings, that I will feel much better once I’ve spent time with God. I also remind myself that I don’t want to get behind on my work!
7) Schedule self-care
Scheduling regular self-care is so important if you want to be more productive! When you are well-rested and happy, you will work harder. If you are burned out, all motivation to be productive will be gone.
8) Give yourself grace
If you want to be more productive then let go of perfectionism. Do your best, and then move on to the next thing!
Key takeaways – How to be more productive:
- Plan ahead and set SMERTIE goals.
- Check your email inbox and social media accounts only at certain times during the day.
- Get your kids to help with household chores.
- Don’t be afraid to say NO.
- Take notes throughout the day and reflect on your WHY often.
- Wake up early.
- Schedule in self-care.
- Don’t be a perfectionist.
If you are more productive with your time; then you’re doing a hard thing! Give yourself grace and a pat on the back for the small steps you’ve taken to improve!
I wish you all the success in the many things you’re trying to accomplish!