Productivity Tips For
Procrastinators
By Lucinda Lions
A
s a solo business operator, procrastination can be extremely detrimental. So
here are a few tips from Lucinda Lions to help keep it at bay. Recently, I isolated
eight things I do on the days when I’m freakishly productive. Here’s my list.
1. I keep my home office tidy
When my home office is clean and uncluttered, so too is my brain; I’m clear about the tasks I need to complete
and I’m motivated to complete them.
2. I write down my daily list of tasks
A list keeps me organised and on track, and ticking things off gives me a huge sense of achievement, which
further feeds my productivity.
3. I write down an overall goal every morning
When I write down my goal at the start of the day it makes an enormous difference to my focus and productivity.
For example, if my goal is: I will work with three new clients by the end of the month, then everything I do for that
month (consciously and subconsciously) moves me towards that goal.
4. I finish what I start
This is a biggie for me. On the days when I’m most productive I actually finish every task that I start before moving
on to the next one. By having this ‘completion mindset’ I’m programmed to just get in and get things done.
5. I work in my zone
Where possible, I think it’s important for people to work in their most productive ‘zone’. For me, this is usually early
in the morning until around midday. I work outside these hours too, but I’m usually less productive.
6. I try to stay mentally alert
If my mind gets fuzzy, so too does my cranial output. To stay mentally alert I often use the Pomodoro technique
(pomodorotechnique.com) – a great time-management method that also boosts productivity.
7. I reduce distractions
When I need to focus I will usually shut down my email programs and the internet, put my phone on silent and
close my door. Distractions are poison for productivity.
8. I’m accountable to someone
If I have a lot of tasks that I really need/want to get done, I’ll be accountable to my partner and we’ll negotiate
a ‘punishment’. If I don’t get my tasks done I usually have to scratch his meandering back itch for five minutes. If
my productivity slips during the day, I hear his voice in the back of my head: “Bit to the left, smidge to the right, a
millimetre up, a centimetre down.” I shudder with fear and power through!
For more from Lucinda Lions head to www.flyingsolo.com.au, Australia’s solo and micro business community.
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