Self-improvement is a popular topic for entrepreneurs, especially at the start of a new year. Fresh ideas, exciting plans, and meaningful actions abound. Instead of trying to use every productivity tool available, what if the solution were to actually do less?
As a productivity coach, I’m well aware of what people face when they’re trying to improve their productivity levels. People tend to search for what I like to call productivity “silver bullets.” They’re a perceived tool or technique that will permanently solve all your productivity challenges. Find that silver bullet and you’re set for life. However, reality isn’t that quite cut and dry.
Your productivity levels are the summation of how well you manage your mindset, time, energy, tools, and resources. So how can you use what’s already available to your advantage and not jump on the latest productivity fad? The key lies in working smarter, and not harder. Follow these practical tips to break free from the dreaded cycle of self-improvement and productivity.
Stop being productive for productivity’s sake
You’re not completing tasks in your business just so you can cross them off your to-do list. The question is whether or not those tasks are moving you closer to your goals. What is your reason for doing the work you’re doing? Is there a vision, purpose, product, service, or group of people that drives you to do your work? Use this as your guiding light.
Each of your tasks should be tied towards your business’ goals, whether that’s sales, human resources, clients, customers, or marketing. Double check your current task list and see if the items are in line with your goals. If you find yourself working on non-essential tasks, then you’re missing out on what could actually be helping both yourself and your business move forward.
Pause purchasing new things
Productivity tools can be quite helpful in your daily work. However, purchasing productivity tools without consideration of your true needs may do more harm. It’s akin to going to the store to buy a pair of shoes. If you purchase a pair that’s too small, you won’t have what you desire: a fitted pair of shoes.
Your self-improvement process starts with where you are right now. Take a quick survey of the tools available to you in your business. Apps, software, programs, notebooks, calendars, and planners all count. Which do you prefer and why? How can you better utilize items?
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Rashelle Isip
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