I’m always looking for ways to be more productive especially when I need a little extra motivation to get shit done. Some weeks I feel like I’m so on top of it and some weeks I need a little extra push, so when those times do come, I always fall back on these productivity hacks. Let’s be real, we’re not always killing it 24/7 so these hacks are a good thing to keep in mind when things feel blah or when they’re super busy and you need to stay on top of it. Even if you implement one of these hacks into your normal work routine, I promise you’ll see a difference.
Make a List
If you don’t already make some sort of list with everything you need to get done, it’s time to start. This can be done digitally, using a project management software, or the old-fashioned way with pen and paper. It really doesn’t matter, just make sure all of your tasks are in one spot. I personally like to organize my lists into categories of most important (aka NEEDS to be done), tasks that can be done at some point that week, and extra tasks that aren’t as high of a priority. Make sure you don’t make your list too long (I’m talking 7 things, max) as it will feel overwhelming and might cause you to have the opposite effect and become more disorganized.
Get the Hardest Thing Done First
The hardest thing, or the thing you don’t want to do the most… whatever it may be, just get it over with. I’m not a big procrastinator and tend to just rip the bandaid off, and that holds true in business. If there’s something challenging or something you’re not looking forward to doing, just get it done. You’ll have to do it at some point, so it might as well be now. I also like to do my hard tasks first while my mind is fresh and before calls, emails, and more start rolling in. This is the time to monotask. It’s a skill to be able to block everything else out and get something done really well – especially in today’s world with distractions around every corner.
Start Time Blocking
Once I started time blocking, my work life was transformed. It’s a simple adjustment that really makes all the difference. It might take some getting used to, but it’s a game-changer! Time blocking is essentially batching tasks together in the same block of time. I like to break my day into two halves:
- Prospecting and computer work (contracts, data, comps, e-mails, etc) and my workout all at home in the AM between 8-12
- Afternoons/early evenings for out-and-about showings, listing appointments, and meeting clients
Of course, with my job as a real estate agent, this doesn’t always work out perfectly but planning my schedule this way has made things much more efficient whenever possible. For example, contracts/marketing/escrow work in the morning allows me to move about during the afternoon without having to go back and forth between my office and showings/listings appointments… And I’ll return calls from the car in between showings to make the most efficient use of my driving time!
Keep Control of Your Breaks
If you’re anything like me, you might struggle with even taking a break, but it’s essential for your mental health. Breaks are important! So if you don’t take breaks, TAKE THEM, because you’re going to be more productive in the long run. If you do take your breaks, make sure you’re keeping control of them. There’s nothing wrong with a 10-minute scroll break, but it’s easy for those 10 minutes to turn into 20-30. Go to that lunch reservation with a friend, but make sure it doesn’t continue on into happy hour. I’m all for giving your mind a rest, resetting, and enjoying the small things during a work week, but make sure you’re staying within your schedule and are still able to check off the “must-dos” on your list 🙂