5 Ways To Be More Productive and Actually Get Stuff Done

Sometimes it feels like there’s a never-ending list of things to do. We can feel a bit overwhelmed and struggle to know where to start. You know that feeling, when you feel like you’re going round in circles. Well, we’re here to point you in the right direction and help you find ways to actually get stuff done. 

 

 

1.  Make A List.

Start by writing a list of things you want to get done, whether that’s today, this week or this month. Not only does it help you keep track of what you need to get done, it’s also so satisfying when you tick them off your list. Using a notepad can help you make a simple list for the day, or try a weekly planner, which is designed for you to plan out an overview of your week. Importantly, make sure to include something on your ‘To You’ list so it’s not all about chores and admin. 

 

2.  Prioritise The Important Stuff.

Make time to do the important stuff. Studies show that when we’re faced with a choice between an urgent task or a more important one, we tend to choose the urgent ones with short deadlines - even if they're less significant. So we’ll jump online to beat that ‘end of season sale’ deadline but we don’t make time to book a medical appointment. Don’t let that be you. Allocate time each week to make sure you’re managing to tick the things that matter off your list, prioritising your health and relationships over ‘stuff’.

 

3.  Don't Get Distracted.

There's lots going on out there and it's all competing for your time and taking up precious headspace, making it difficult to get stuff done. Let’s talk about the obvious one - your phone. It can be a great tool to help you be more productive, but it’s also a huge distraction. Keep an eye on your screen time, turn off your notifications, maybe even take a digital detox - and don’t let it take you away from doing stuff that really matters.  

 

4.  Try The Two-Minute Rule.

We’re fans of the two-minute rule, a strategy used by David Allen in his book Getting Things Done to help with productivity and avoid procrastination. Basically, if something can be done in two minutes or less, don’t put it off, do it right now. Confirm - or cancel - that meeting, tidy the kitchen, fold the laundry, reply to your friend. It’s done. Ticked off your list, and it's not hanging over you, becoming a much bigger task in you mind.

 

5.  Find Balance In Your Life.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, pause for a moment and take a good look at your To- Do List. Are you setting yourself up to fail with unrealistic deadlines and unachievable goals? Are you feeling stressed out? Stress can be a force for good in the short term, focusing your mind and motivating you to get things done, but too much stress is counterproductive, so be realistic. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it and look at ways to find balance in your life.

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