How to be More Productive (even when you don’t feel like it)

The Successful Businessman has Six Arms...You Don't.

We all have stuff to do; not all of it is enjoyable. I’ve found that 90% of the time, the things that I want to do least are also the things that will bring me the most success. To that end, I’ve created this post to share some tips I use to be more productive even when I really don’t feel like doing much.

1. Create a list before you go to bed of tomorrow’s objectives.

Before you go to sleep at night create a list of everything that you need or want to accomplish tomorrow. Prioritize it based on which activities will bring you the most success. Number it accordingly. What you’ll likely find is that those activities you don’t want to do (contacting people for JVs, contacting new advertisers, etc.) are also the ones likely to bring you the most profit or future success. The activities you want to do (finding a new blog theme, posting on forums) are usually the ones that will have the least impact on your success. In short, do the tough, profitable tasks first, save the rest for later in the day.

2. Don’t check email first thing.

Most people check their email first thing upon turning on their computer for the day. Some people check it even before eating or showering in the morning. Don’t do this. Emails from other people take the focus off of what YOU plan to do and move it towards others’ demands. Wake up and do your productive tasks without looking at your mail. Check email midday. Same goes for voicemail.

3. Outsource when possible.

Sure, you could learn how to program and design a new blog theme. But is there much profit in that? No. Hire someone to do it or buy a pre-made solution. The eight hours you spend making a banner ad could be better spent elsewhere- I ASSURE you. Let others do work that does not have to be 100% done by you. If you’re just starting out, you may not have any money to hire outsourcers so you’ll be stuck doing more yourself. That’s OK, but don’t get stuck in that mode forever. Also, consider bartering your skills for the work of others. It would be better to have an expert designer make that banner for you while you spent time doing what you’re great at (writing, video, etc.) in exchange.

4. Get on a regular schedule.

I know the “internet lifestyle” can bring on some pretty crazy sleep habits, it’s something I fight quite a bit. Still, I’m way more productive when I get to bed early and wake up early as well. Consistency is the key with this.

5. Get rid of your TV.

I’ve said this before, but it bears repeating. If your life isn’t what you want it to be, there is very little reason to be consuming hours of mindlessness daily. Save TV for a very rare reward for accomplished goals. When you need downtime read a good fiction book- it keeps the mind sharp.

6. Set goals for each day, week and month.

Goals are the one way we can take actual measure of our success. It’s important to know whether you are moving forward, backward or stuck perpetually in neutral. I really resisted the idea of setting goals but once I started it became not only natural, but also enjoyable. It felt good to scratch off a milestone once it had been reached and then set my sights on the next one. Keep a list of small goals, medium goals and huge goals that may take years to reach. You need to know where you are headed before you set sail in the ocean.

7. Rest.

Take real rest. Rest without email, phones or any thought of business. Go camping. Take a vacation. Turn off every electronic device in your home and spend the day reading books. Trust me, it will all be there for you tomorrow. Rest recharges the mind and soul for the future. Take stock of what’s important to you. Laugh.