Productivity! If you’re like most of us, you’ve probably thought how much better things would be if you could just be a little more productive (or a lot more productive). Sure there is plenty of information on time management, energy management, and strategies for increasing productivity to fill a library, however, who has time to read it all? And frankly, even when you do get through some of that content, do you find it’s still easy fall back into your previous daily routine, regardless of how inefficient it may be?
So let’s simplify the process. Here are some things to consider first in attaining a better level of productivity…
- The first thing to remember is: “Take care of the days, and the years take care of themselves.” A successful lifetime is made up of successful years, which are made up of successful months, which are made up of successful weeks, etc. So, it is important to remember to make the most of every day. Step back each morning and spend a few moments determining the true priorities for that day. Those priorities should include work, rest, recreation, exercise and training, and a well-balanced diet to fuel the day.
- If you want to have long-term success, you need to be sure you maintain your health. As they say, “If you don’t take care of your body, your body will take care of you.” We all know of someone who has had brief periods of amazing productivity but is then sidelined by sickness, injury or some other challenge because they let their health become a secondary priority.
- Good health is a good start, but your energy also plays a role in productivity. In the book “The Power of Full Engagement,” the authors provide ample evidence that managing energy, not time, is the key to high performance. It is important to look at each day as a whole because everything you do contributes to your energy level. If your diet is good, you’re exercising regularly, and you’re getting plenty of rest, your energy levels will be where they need to be to have a highly productive day.
With these ideas in mind, take a minute to analyze your day from dawn to dusk. Are you balancing your priorities, health, and energy properly? I’ve never met a successful person who doesn’t struggle to constantly optimize the balance in their day. Ask yourself, what can you do to enhance the balance in your life?
After answering these questions, take this week to focus on achieving an improved sense of balance in the areas we’ve discussed. How can you adjust or improve your focus to support them? What one thing could you do just a little bit better to attain higher productivity? Then, once you have truly considered this mindset, return next week and let’s discover some specific steps to enhance your productivity.
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