Sometimes it just seems like there aren’t enough hours in a day. That’s not always the case, though. We all have same 24 hours in a day, but it’s how we spend that time that makes a difference. The more productive you are in your 24 hours each day, the more you will accomplish. The less you will feel like you are “wasting time” or “getting nothing done”.
This doesn’t simply mean working from sun up to sundown and never resting. It means knowing what is the most important and getting those things done first. When the most important (and stressful) things are done and out of the way, it leaves space for you to get the other things in your day done without procrastination and additional interruption.
The following are 7 ways to prioritize your schedule to help you stay productive without reaching burnout:
Prioritize What Matters Most: The things that are most important will be different for each person. You know what needs to be done specifically on one given day, such as tasks that are required to meet a certain deadline. Put these things at the top of your schedule each day to ensure that they are done in a timely manner. Then you have the rest of your day to move on to other tasks that need your attention.
Check In with Yourself: Recognize how hard you are working. When you begin to feel tired or run down, it’s time to take a step back and take time for yourself. Overworking yourself will make you less productive in the long run, not more productive. Listen to your body and plan your time accordingly.
Learn to Say “No” & Delegate Tasks: Someone might want your help, or want you to take on another task, but you simply don’t have time. If you can’t do it, learn to say a polite and firm, “No”. You don’t owe anyone an explanation. “No” means “no”. If you can’t do it, don’t pressure yourself into feeling you have to please everyone, every single time. It’s not worth your mental and physical health to stretch yourself that thin. If the task is something that you must do, delegate things to those people in your business and who can help you get it done. They are paid to work and are most likely happy to help ensure that things get done properly. Teams can accomplish more than individuals.
Find More Effective Ways to Work: Carve out times in your day where you can dedicate your time to yourself and to things that you personally need to complete for the business. Put away all other interruptions and make this your time to do the things that you know need to be done.
Pursue Other Interests: Always be sure to take some time away from work and do things that you love with your personal time. Make sure that you pursue your own interests outside of business and make time to spend with those you love and care about. Never push your family and friends away over money and business. Those relationships mean more than any amount of money ever could.
Make Time For Yourself & Self-Care: Be sure to help make time for yourself. You deserve to have time where you can put yourself first. Whether you like playing sports, spending time with your kids, watching TV, sleeping in, etc. make time to recharge so that you can come back fresh and ready to go to work the next day or time you are in the office.
Create Boundaries For Your Work: Whether you commit so many hours to work, or only work certain times of the day, no one should be up working 24/7. 16 hour days and little to no sleep may make you wealthier in the long run, but it’s not sustainable long-term. Find a balance that works for you, because you have to live with your work life in the future.
Always be sure that you are balancing your work and personal life in order to live your best life. Choose your balance with your professional and personal life and know your limits. After all, your health and well-being are your top priority.
For more information on how to balance your time and be productive during your workday, please feel free to contact us. We are always here to help your business succeed!