Family and friends have gotten the phrase “I have been busy!!!” from entrepreneurs (and even non entrepreneurs) more than a million times. This has had an effect or the other that entrepreneurs are still too busy to notice. This is not to doubt how indeed busy one gets, but what are you busy doing? The haste to get things done, to meet deadlines, to deliver goods and so many other reasons are behind this busy phrase we get from our loved ones and it is only fair to understand.
If busy entrepreneurs can lay their hands on a magic wand to get things done for them and avoid these busy stories, they are sure to grab it at all cost. This is not magic but practical tips for for improving your productivity as a busy entrepreneurs:
Use Time Blocks
If you struggle with focusing on or prioritizing tasks, time blocks may be the answer. These are mini blocks of scheduled time throughout your day (ie: Answer emails, 9:10 – 9:30 am). During each block, you focus on one very specific task and ignore everything else. This allows for maximum efficiency and ensures that you cross off all the priority items for the day.
Implement Accountability
It’s amazing how public accountability can motivate us. Set goals, even if it’s just your to-do list for the day/week. Then, share them with a coworker, friend, or your team. Knowing that you’ll have to report back and answer for not meeting those goals might add the extra motivation you need to see them through.
Don’t Multitask
Your days are inexplicably busy. When possible, though, avoid multitasking and hone your focus on the job at hand. When you’re being pulled in a hundred directions daily, it’s easy to bounce from task to task. However, this is inefficient — jobs are left open and incomplete, or mistakes are made due to simple oversight. Staying focused on one task until completion ensures that they’re crossed off and done to the fullest potential.
Cut Out Distractions
Easier said than done, but try cutting unnecessary distractions throughout the day–like social media browsing. This may mean putting your cell phone across the room or even installing a productivity-boosting “blocker” on your computer.
Make Lists
There’s something incredibly gratifying about crossing off tasks on a big, yellow legal pad, or deleted an item from the notes section on my phone. More than that, though, lists can help you stay on track. If tasks are written down in front of you, you decrease the chances of them being overlooked or forgotten. You can also streamline your day if you have a list of specific pending items, rather than jumping around to whatever you think of next.
