The simple trick to productivity among entrepreneurs is being intentional with how you spend your time. But the reality is that entrepreneurs often allow too many distractions to effect their day. And if you are planning on getting anything done in the startup world, you’re going to need a strict regiment of productivity if you want to succeed.
Below is a short list of concepts that could help you manage your scheduled better so you can invest more time into developing yourself, your business, and your leadership skills.
Organize and Simplify
Begin by labeling files in a way that makes sense to you and keep important, frequently referenced documents in a folder. The less time you spend searching for items, the more time you have to focus on important tasks. Everyone can easily get inundated with and submerged in work-related details, but it’s important to remember that by taking the time to organize, you’ll save time hunting through the piles.
Multitask with Intention
We live in a fast-paced world where people are continuously taking on more work than they can do in a day. By multitasking with intention, you can accomplish a lot more. But let me be clear; it is very important not to multitask to the point where you lose focus. For example, if you are on the phone with a client, you probably shouldn’t be typing an email to another. On the other hand, if you are on the elliptical at the gym, it’s more than acceptable to try to get some work done.
Write a To-Do List the Night Before
A surprising number of successful people share this habit. Knowing what your workload will look like the following day will help you rest more easily, helping you feel more prepared to meet unique challenges or new situations. You’ll also be able to refer to it if you realize you’ve forgotten something overnight. Plus, a good night’s sleep is the best way to promote productivity.
Read Never Eat Alone by Keith Ferrazzi
This is one of the most inspirational and informative books read by a large chunk of entrepreneurs. Ferrazzi details — in an entertaining fashion — the best tactics to networking effectively with generosity to ensure everyone wins. Our lives, in business and outside, are largely dictated by the health and strength of our connections.
Set Aside Personal Time
When you’re done at work, be done with work. An unbalanced life isn’t healthy. Our bodies and minds need the rejuvenation that happens during sleep. Likewise our “work muscles” need time to rest, recuperate, and ruminate on new information. Remember to commit as much time, effort, and love into your non-work relationships as you put into your work relationships, including time with yourself.
Turn Off the TV
Instead of submitting to the urge to tune out in front of the TV, read something. Whether you’re reading something that will directly help you improve your performance at work, or you’re reading a book strictly for pleasure, you’ll be doing yourself a great service. Your mind needs new information from varied sources to continue growing.
Listen to Audiobooks While Driving
There is so much to learn and so little time to learn it all. Audiobooks are readily available, both on CD and for download, meaning that long commutes could work in your favor. Start your day with a motivational CD or podcast to get you pumped up for work, or listen to an industry-specific talk to gain insight and new tools.