Keeping things simple is always a good idea. Is it possible that there could be three simple rules that would boost your productivity and dramatically increase your odds at success in both life and in business?
Well, it’s not only possible – these rules exist and I have them for you today:
#1 Always Think on Paper
There is magic in writing your thoughts down on paper with pen or pencil, whether you are journaling, writing copy, creating a list, or looking to solve a problem. [quotes]The way our minds work, involving the hand in the writing process creates new neuron connections that using a keyboard doesn’t.[/quotes]
Take a piece of paper and write down everything you intend to do. Include everything, even your plans to eat a healthy lunch and workout, prepare dinner for you and your family, every detail. Then organize the piece of paper by asking yourself: “If I could only do one thing on this list today, which one thing would it be?” And if I could only do two things which would be the second and the third?
When you start first thing in the morning, start off with number one, and discipline yourself to work only on number one until it’s complete. Then move on to number two.
#2 Stop Checking Your Email in The Morning
If you were to follow the suggestions made in this next paragraph your effectiveness would easily double because your [quotesright]focused attention minimizes the time lost by pull of technology. [/quotesright]
Checking your email in the morning makes getting off track entirely too easy. It starts with just one email, and before you know it, you’re several hours into your day and you still haven’t started on your number one task. Keep your phone away from you or off to avoid being distracted from your most important task.
Focus on your most important task for the day, work on it until it’s complete and then you can check your email and other incoming requests.
#3 The Night Before Create Your List of Written Tasks
The final way for you to make sure you have a productive day is to [quotes]make a list of your goals and tasks the night before.[/quotes] Your ability to make good plans before you act is a measure of your overall competence. The better plan you have, the easier it is for you to overcome procrastination, to get started and then to keep going.
By writing down your goals before you go to sleep, [quotesright]you’re tapping into your subconscious mind, [/quotesright] you will think about the things you need to do and mentally prepare yourself to do them before you even wake up the next morning.
- by Coach Phil Gilkes
