Written by: Torie Mathis, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
If you're a fresh-faced entrepreneur looking to get more out of your day, you're in luck! Check out these 15 surprising productivity tips that will help you make the most of every minute. From morning rituals to time management tricks, these tips will help you get organized and focused so you can achieve your goals. So what are you waiting for? Start reading and start getting productive!
15 surprising entrepreneur productivity hacks
Before we dive in too much, I want to mention that being more productive is not about working harder, putting in more hours, or grinding into oblivion. Yes, entrepreneurship is hard work and not for everyone, but getting more done is more about being smart than working harder.
So let's dive into 15 entrepreneur productivity hacks.
1. Ditch the Morning Routine
I'm sure you've heard the glorious rumors of the perfect morning routine guaranteed to spark entrepreneurial success. Well, it just is not true. In fact, studies show that having a rigid morning routine can actually make you less productive. Instead, aim to have a general guideline for your mornings, such as getting in some physical activity or eating a healthy breakfast, but leave room for flexibility and spontaneity. This allows you to focus on what truly matters each day instead of being stuck in a mundane routine.
2. Embrace the Power of No
It is easy to say yes to every opportunity that comes your way, but saying no can actually increase your productivity. Instead of spreading yourself too thin with multiple projects and commitments, focus on what truly matters to you and your business. Saying no allows you to prioritize and use your time effectively instead of wasting it on things that may not be aligned with your end goals.
3. Break it Down
Creating lists can seem like a daunting task, but they are actually incredibly helpful in organizing and prioritizing tasks. It allows you to visually see what needs to get done and cross off tasks as you accomplish them. It also helps prevent the feeling of being overwhelmed by breaking down larger tasks into smaller, manageable chunks.
4. Time Block
Similar to making a list, time blocking helps you organize and prioritize your tasks based on their level of importance and urgency. Break up your day into specific time frames and assign tasks for each block, taking into account any meetings or appointments you may have. This way, you can make sure you are using your time effectively and efficiently.
5. Step Away
This may seem counterintuitive, but taking breaks has been shown to increase productivity. Taking a few minutes throughout the day to step away from work can help clear your mind and recharge your energy levels. This allows you to come back refreshed and ready to tackle your tasks.
6. Eat the Frog
This old proverb means to tackle your biggest and most daunting task first thing in the morning, getting it out of the way so you can focus on smaller tasks for the rest of the day. This not only helps with productivity but also with reducing stress levels as that big task is no longer looming over you.
7. Stop Doing It
As an entrepreneur, it can be tempting to try and do everything yourself. But delegating tasks to others, whether it be employees or outside help, allows you to focus on the tasks that only you can do and frees up time for more important things. Trusting others with tasks also helps build a strong team and allows for growth within your business.
8. Unplug
Constantly checking emails and being plugged into technology can be overwhelming and distracting. Take some time each day to unplug and disconnect, allowing yourself to focus on the task at hand without outside distractions. This also helps improve work-life balance by not constantly being connected to work.
9. Throw it Away
Staying organized helps with productivity by making it easier to find important information and stay on top of tasks. This can be accomplished through using a planner, setting reminders, or even just keeping a clean workspace. Sometimes that means getting rid of things that no longer matter. Digitize what you can and minimize the piles of paperwork to feel more productive and organized. Find what works for you and stick with it in order to stay organized and productive.
10. Make Time for Self-Care
It can be easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of running a business, but it is important to remember to take care of yourself. Make time for self-care, whether it be exercising, practicing mindfulness, or just taking a break from work. This not only helps with productivity but also with overall well-being.
11. Reevaluate Your Goals
Setting both short-term and long-term goals helps give direction and purpose to your actions. It allows you to focus on what truly matters and work towards those goals, helping improve productivity and success in the long run. Also, don't be afraid to reevaluate or adjust your goals as necessary. Things may change or evolve as your business grows, and that's okay.
12. Get Back to Your Roots
Staying motivated can be a challenge, especially when faced with setbacks or challenges. Find things that inspire and drive you, whether it be inspirational quotes or success stories from other entrepreneurs. Remember why you started your business and the end goal you are working towards. Also, don't be afraid to ask for support or help when needed.
13. Celebrate Your Wins
It's important to not only focus on goals and what needs to be done but also take the time to celebrate your successes and wins. This helps with motivation and morale, allowing you to keep pushing forward to reach your goals.
14. Set Aside Some Work
Prioritizing tasks helps with time management and staying on top of what needs to be done. It also allows you to focus on the most important tasks instead of getting sidetracked by smaller ones that may not necessarily need immediate attention. Take some time each day or week to prioritize and make a to-do list.
15. Keep Learning
It's important to continuously learn and improve, whether it be through reading books or attending workshops, or taking marketing courses. This helps with staying up-to-date in your industry and also allows for personal and professional growth. Never stop learning and seeking new knowledge, as it can only benefit you and your business.
Even if you're already familiar with some of these productivity tips, it never hurts to be reminded of them. And for the fresh-faced entrepreneurs out there, don't forget to bookmark this post and refer back to it as needed. We hope that by following these tips, you'll find yourself getting more done in less time – and feeling great doing it!
Torie Mathis helps entrepreneurs, like you, use digital marketing to grow your business without wasting time, money, or your sanity. She is a best-selling author, Army veteran, speaker + trainer, and your digital marketing coach. You don't need crazy tech skills, buckets of cash, or dedicated staff to market your business. In fact, you don't even need a lot of time. What you need is to be SMART. Torie hosts SMART AF, a show for non-techy entrepreneurs looking to grow their small business, with her husband Sean Mathis, and is the creator of SMART AF Magazine. Learn digital marketing for your small business at toriemathis.com
