A Simple Yet Powerful Secret to Productivity

Do you want to get more done?

Here’s a simple trick to help you become more productive and get more meaningful work done every day.

In fact, it’s so simple I think you might laugh at me for sharing it with you.

My Prediction
That’s alright though, I’ve prepared myself for that. I figure most of you won’t make it to the end of this post because you think you’re doing it already and because it’s nothing new.

A few more of you will think it’s a good idea … but won’t follow through an implement it.

But the real reason I wanted to post this up for you is because I KNOW there will be a small group of you that really are serious about getting more done and becoming more successful.

You won’t overlook this simple technique and you’ll make sure to try it out for a couple of weeks or a month. And then it will become a regular part of your day.

Okay…so enough preamble and let’s get to the juicy stuff…

Strategic Planning Made Simple
If your organized you’ll likely be planning your week out in advance. On Sunday night you’ll look at you next week and see how full it is with meetings and deadlines.

You’ll then think about what you need to get done, other priorities and you’ll schedule them in.

That’s pretty straightforward. Here’s where things take a turn however…

Likely, you’ll start working through one of the items on your list for that day. You’ll become distracted with a phone call, talking with a colleague or friend, reading a blog, checking Twitter or looking up the latest World Cup scores on TV (as it’s going on as I write this).

Results Are What Matter
The result of that process is that you’ll get some work done, but more often than not you will leave a good amount of work unfinished … the day will just slip away.

Here’s what you should do … again, I know it sounds very simple, but it works. And that’s all that counts.

Take a look at your list for that day. First thing in the morning or just after you’ve checked emails or made the calls you have to, get out a piece of scrap paper and make a list of the most important items for that day, with most important first and least important last.

Now, turn off the TV. Close all your social media sites, blogs, and other browser windows. Put a do not disturb sign on your door or tell the colleague beside you to “be quiet!”.

Where You Go From Here
Next step? Work through your list. By creating a list and removing all distractions you become 10 times more productive if not more.

Look at your list, conquer the first item and then cross it off. DO NOT check email or start doing other things between items. Go to the next one and move forward from there.

Of course, it’s all good to take a break, read, each lunch or do whatever you need to do, but have a set 10-30 mins for that. When you’re taking your break, take your break. When you’re working, work!

KISS (keep it simple stupid) really rings true here. A very simple yet amazingly powerful technique. Go on, give it a whirl!

Share Your Productivity Tips
What have you found to be the best way to stay productive? I’d love to hear your tips below…