How often do you log off wondering if you will ever be able to work an eight-hour day? Or even better enjoy a four-day workweek? As a small business owner, it seems like “time management” is a soft skill documented on the job application, right? If that is true, why do so many entrepreneurs end their days feeling like they did not accomplish as much as they wanted? Let’s dive into 5 tips that will help you increase productivity.
Avoid Multitasking
I know, you are probably thinking “what is wrong with multitasking?” It is simply not possible and science proves it. According to an article in the New York Times, multitasking is “A Biological Impossibility.” A great way to avoid the multitasking temptation is to implement the Pomodoro Technique. Utilizing this strategy allows you to break down larger projects into smaller tasks. Which in turn helps eliminate overwhelm and avoid procrastination.
Modify Your Schedule
In my previous blog post I recommended identifying your power hours as a key component when it comes to managing your calendar. If you know you really don’t get started until 10:00AM, avoid putting high priority tasks/demanding tasks before then.
Set Smart Goals
As Desmond Tutu said, “there is only one way to eat an elephant: a bite at a time.” Evaluate the projects you have on your plate and break them down into smaller chunks. Now create your daily/weekly schedule by setting SMART goals. This will keep you on target to completed your day-to-day tasks and make the larger projects seem less daunting.
Start Saying No
It is hard not to be the doer of all things, but if you never say no you will constantly be going a million miles a minute and eventually burn out! I get it. Walking away from a potential new clients or missing out on a mid-day coffee chat stings. However, on the flip side if you don’t say no or decline are you really showing up at 100 percent?
Learn to Delegate
This is the ultimate productivity booster! According to forbes, delegating and outsourcing are the real time savers. Relinquishing control and finding time to train are common reasons small business owners and entrepreneurs find themselves doing everything. If you do not have a team and simply are not ready to hire a resources a virtual assistant is a great solution! Head over to our previous blog post, What is a Virtual Assistant to learn more about this flexible solution.
The bottom line is we all have the same amount of hours in the day. Take some time to review recurring tasks and tasks that do NOT have to be completed by you and start creating your outsourcing plan. We have created a great 10 step checklist to help prepare you for a successful virtual assistant partnership.
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