5 Simple Tricks to Be More Productive Everyday

One of my biggest challenges day to day is trying to maximize my productivity. I’m always trying to juggle class, school work, two jobs, social commitments, and everything else in life, so productivity tricks have saved me when it comes to fitting more things into one day. Here my top 5 tricks to being more productive each and every day, maximizing your time and staying as efficient as possible.\

Make a list.

Everyday.

Before you walk out of the house, make a list of things that need to happen that day. I do this as soon as I get dressed each morning. This list could include phone calls, classes, homework assignments, social commitments, or anything that might be important for the day.

This simple reminder system allows me to see what my priorities are each day and make sure that everything I need to get done in a day gets done. It also helps me organize my thoughts, as I’m not trying to remember a bunch of different things throughout the day, I can always just refer to my list.

Don’t just make the list and leave it on your desk either, keep it with you all day. I use my iPad’s Notes app for my lists, however use a system that works for you. There are tons of other apps that help create this list for you, or you could always use a pen and paper if that’s more your style.

Don’t overextend yourself, it is OKAY to say no.

One thing I did not start doing until recently was saying “no” to people. If you would ask me to do something, I would probably do it, even if I had no interest in it. I realized a while ago that this is actually causing more issues for me and killing my productivity levels.I would end up overcommitting myself and I would sacrifice sleep, eating, or social time to get my other work done.

My productivity levels plummeted, because I was too overworked and exhausted to be productive. I was spreading myself too thin to get anything useful done on any of my projects. Overcommitting yourself will eventually kill your productivity levels. If you want to be productive, make ample time for you to do what you need to do. You’ll be less stressed and have more time to work on what you’re passionate about.

Create Routines

Every morning, I’m out the door by 6:00am. While I’m usually just walking to a cafe a block over, I’m out of the house and doing work. The night before, I lay all of my clothes out, write a note with any important reminders, and make sure my bag is packed with anything I’ll need for the next day.

I’ve created a night routine and a morning routine that allows me to start my day as quickly as possible and get to work. These routines have developed based on what works for me. Setting routines and sticking to them can be really difficult; however, routines are one of the best ways to increase productivity. Routines help you stay focused so you can get more done in a day.

Get one important thing done before 10 AM everyday.

Everyday, get one important thing done before 10 AM. This will allow you to start your day with a small accomplishment. I usually end up going to the store or sending an email first thing in the morning, so I know I’m getting something done.

By forcing yourself to accomplish something early on in the day, you’re putting yourself in a productive mindset for the rest of the day. One small accomplishment before 10 AM puts you in the mindset of someone who is ready to work, ready to get things done, and be productive.

Set deadlines and stick to them.

Of all the things that have allowed me to become more productive, this is the best tip I can offer. Deadlines that are enforced are the biggest secret to my success. I usually ask my friends to hold me accountable to a deadline, which forces me to get things done before that deadline.

I’ve also heard of people telling their friends to take $100 from their wallet each time they don’t hit a deadline. While I can’t afford that solution, having someone else hold you accountable to get things done is one of, if not the best, way to remain productive for a long period of time.

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