The hidden gem of productivity…

I’m always on the look out for the latest and greatest productivity tools and strategies to share with you and my clients.  There’s lots of great software and apps that can help you get more done in less time and schedule out ever minute of your day.  But rather than tell you about these sexy tools that claim to give you time back, I’ll let you in on the real deal goodies you want to get first to help you get more done. 

 

Get enough rest.  One of the top productivity killers is just being too tired and feeling burnt out. Feeling exhausted inevitably leads to procrastination, simply because you just don’t have the energy to get the job done.  A tired mind has a hard time focusing, being creative, and thinking clearly.  A tired body has a hard time gathering the energy to do anything.

 

Studies show that even a moderately sleep deprived mind has to work harder than a well-rested mind.  Missing out on as little as one and a half hours for just one night could drop your daytime alertness by as much as 32 percent!  Not to mention that it also showed an increase in appetite and overeating.

 

The hidden gem of productivity is some basic self-care.  It can go a long way in recharging your batteries to power through your day. So before you download the latest and greatest app, check-in to make sure you’ve got your fundamentals covered – are you getting enough sleep?

 

I know this isn’t rocket science, but we can all use a reminder every now and then to make sure it’s happening.  If you’ve got the shut-eye mastered, move on to the other basics: staying hydrated, eating well, meditating, and exercising regularly. 

 

One final note: There’s a lot of no cost ways to give yourself a little R&R.  But, it’s also important to invest in your well being. Take vacations, get massages, hire help – you’ll see the ROI come back in mental alertness, energy and productivity!