While there are many tools that you can use to help boost your productivity, at the end of the day, it is what you do on a daily basis that makes the biggest difference. Below are five things the most productive people do that allow them to get more out of each day:
They say “no”
Productive people are able to steer clear of commitments that would keep them from doing what they have (or want) to do. They know that time is a finite resource. They understand that committing to one task effectively means neglecting another, so they pick their battles carefully and focus on doing things that create the greatest value.
Of course, you can always just multitask (i.e., rapidly switch between two or more different tasks), but that doesn’t really do much in terms of boosting productivity. Find out why here.
They work for results
Are you a part of a club or committee that you don’t actually want to be in but can’t seem to leave because it makes you look cool? Do you take on projects that you don’t really want to do simply because of the recognition you’ll get? Well, it may be time to reconsider your priorities. Doing something simply to feed your ego can seriously hurt your productivity.
If you want to become truly productive, focus on doing things that actually create value like advancing your career, increasing your profits, expanding your network or anything else that actually takes you a step closer to where you want to be and what you want to accomplish.
They know when to settle for “good enough”
Sometimes, the amount of time and effort required to achieve something becomes so great that it’s no longer worth pursuing unless you’re doing it as a career. In my case, for example, while I enjoy playing the guitar, I wouldn’t spend at least eight hours a day on it just to get my skill level up to par with professional players. Becoming a legend like Jimi Hendrix would definitely be cool for sure, but it’s not at the top of my priorities right now. Instead, I’m settling for being just good enough to play the songs that I enjoy so I have more time and energy for the things that matter more to me like running a business and spending time with my family and friends.
They know when to call for help
Finally, there’s only so much you can fit into one day, and unless everything on your to-do list is vital to the accomplishment of your goals, it would be wise to call someone else to take care of the non-essentials for you. Even big companies do it so they can focus on doing their core business exceptionally well. In your case, while mowing the lawn, repainting the house or fixing the plumbing should not be a big deal if you have free time, you should consider getting help if they start taking time away from what truly matters to you.
Got anything to add? Let us know in the comments!