To be successful in our modern lives, it helps to have a system that can help us keep track of our tasks, stay focused on the task at hand, and also manage our time efficiently. In this article, I am going to share my methods of keeping my brain and my schedule organized. I hope that you find them useful too!
STEP 1: Set Up Your Productivity System
It might seem like a hassle to create a new system for productivity in your life, but I encourage you to do so anyway. You can always start simple and work your way up to something more advanced over time.
At first, just keep your system simple. I recommend starting with a simple task manager like Todoist and then adding features later.
STEP 2: Set Up Your Daily Routines
Once you've got your system set up, start scheduling time for yourself throughout your day. Try scheduling 30 minutes for yourself at the beginning of each day to think through your list of tasks, or 15 minutes at the end of the day to review your accomplishments for the day.
If you're struggling to get started on your own tasks, use some simple reminders to get started. A whiteboard on your wall or a calendar reminder can help keep you on track!
STEP 3: Prioritize Your Tasks
This step is a bit of a challenge when you're first starting out, but with practice, it becomes easier.
Start by setting priorities for yourself.
Is this task critical for me to get done today? If it's important, I will give it the highest priority. If it's unimportant, it doesn't need to be on my list of things to do today.
Does this task take too much of my time? If yes, I will remove it from my list.
How much time am I spending on this task each day? If it's taking more than 15% of my daily time, then I'll need to prioritize it lower.
When you're done, look at the overall progress of your tasks and see how efficient you are at prioritizing.
STEP 4: Manage Your Time Effectively
Time management can seem like a lot of work, but it really isn't. If you are able to effectively organize your tasks, you will be able to accomplish more in less time and avoid wasting valuable time doing unnecessary tasks.
If you need to schedule meetings and other events, set reminders for when it's time. If you need to be at an event early or late, plan it into your day.
This step is actually pretty easy. Just focus on doing three things:
Make sure you are focused on the right tasks
Avoid multitasking
Have clear expectations and deadlines
Doing this three things allows you to keep your time manageable and gives you a sense of completion.
STEP 5: Stick to the Plan
Don't go off the rails, even if you're tempted. Remember, your plan is the only thing that will guide you toward the result you desire.