Get Sh*t Done

As someone w's often struggled to stay on top of my never-ending to-do list, I've spent a lot of time exploring various time management, efficiency, and focus strategies to help me excel in my work. And as a self-proclaimed productivity geek, I've tried more productivity apps and tools than I care to admit (my phone is basically a productivity zoo). But through all the trial and error, I've found 10 essential productivity tips that have made a significant difference in my life, and I'm excited to share them with you! So grab your favourite caffeinated beverage and let's dive in.

3 Set Achievable Goals:

Without clearly defined goals, it's easy to get lost in the weeds and forget what we're actually trying to achieve. Plus, having a sense of purpose and direction can help us stay motivated and focused when things get tough.

Now, I'll be honest, setting achievable goals hasn't always been easy for me. I personally like to plan my goals for the next day right before I go to bed, so that they're the first thing I remember when I wake up. However, I've struggled with setting goals that are actually achievable within the timeframe I have. I've often found myself feeling overwhelmed and burnt out, which is not a good feeling.

That's where Trello comes in. Trello is a highly visual and customizable task management tool that can help you break down larger goals into smaller, more achievable tasks. You can use Trello to create boards for each project, and use cards to track progress, set deadlines, and collaborate with others. By using Trello to break down your goals into smaller tasks, you can make progress in a more manageable way and stay motivated throughout the process.

So there you have it, guys. Setting achievable goals is crucial for maintaining focus and motivation, but it can be challenging to do so without the right tools and techniques. Trello is just one of many tools that can help you set and achieve your goals, so don't be afraid to experiment with different approaches and find what works best for you.

2 Take regular breaks

It may sound counterintuitive, but taking regular breaks can actually help you stay focused and productive. Research has shown that taking breaks every 60-90 minutes can improve your concentration and reduce fatigue. Here's why it works:

Firstly, our brains are not wired for long periods of sustained attention. When we work on a task for an extended period of time, our brains become fatigued, which can lead to a decrease in productivity and an increase in errors. Taking regular breaks allows our brains to rest and recharge, which can actually help us maintain our focus over the long term. Secondly, taking breaks can also help us maintain our motivation and energy levels. When we work for extended periods without a break, our motivation and energy levels can begin to flag. By taking regular breaks, we can keep our energy levels up and maintain our motivation to continue working on our tasks.

So, how can you take advantage of the benefits of regular breaks? One approach is to use the Pomodoro Technique, which involves working for a set period of time (usually 25 minutes) and then taking a short break (usually 5 minutes). After four "Pomodoros," you take a longer break (usually 15-20 minutes). This technique can help you stay focused during your work sessions and ensure that you take regular breaks throughout the day. Another approach is to simply take a break whenever you feel your attention starting to wane. This might mean taking a short walk, doing some stretching exercises, or simply taking a few deep breaths. The key is to find a method that works for you and allows you to recharge your brain and maintain your focus over the long term.

1 Visualising & Saving Thoughts

Visualising and saving thoughts is like capturing fireflies in a jar - they're small, fleeting, and disappear before you know it. In this section, we'll explore why it's important to capture these elusive thoughts before they escape. One tool that can help with this is mind mapping. It's like a treasure map for your ideas - you can plot them out and see how they connect. And let's be real, who doesn't want to feel like a treasure hunter?

Personally, I like to jot down my ideas on paper. It's like catching butterflies with a net - you can see them up close and personal, and then release them back into the wild (or your notebook). Otherwise, those ideas flutter away like the wings of a butterfly. If you're more of a tech-savvy butterfly catcher, paper tablets can be a game changer. It's like having a digital notebook that you can take with you anywhere. Plus, no need to worry about losing your notes in a gust of wind - it's all saved in one place.

The Boogie Board Jot 8.5 has been my go-to paper tablet for a while now, and it has been a lifesaver in helping me visualise and save my thoughts. I love its simplicity and ease of use - just pick up the stylus and start writing! Plus, it's compact and easy to carry around, so I can use it wherever and whenever inspiration strikes.

However, if you have a larger budget and are looking for an upgrade, I would highly recommend the Moleskine Smart Writing Set. It offers some additional features that the Boogie Board Jot 8.5 does not have, such as the ability to save your notes digitally and synchronise them across devices. This is especially useful for those who want to keep their notes organised and easily accessible. Plus, the Smart Writing Set comes with a special notebook that is specifically designed to work with the pen, giving you a more seamless and integrated experience. Overall, if you're serious about visualising and saving your thoughts, the Moleskine Smart Writing Set is definitely worth considering.

Remember, the key to productivity is not just hard work, but also a healthy dose of laziness. Don't be afraid to take breaks, procrastinate, and indulge in your guilty pleasures. But when it's time to get sh*t done, use these tips and tools to make the most of your time. And if all else fails, just pretend that your boss is a terrifying monster who will eat you alive if you don't finish your work on time. Works like a charm for me!