Last week I talked about productivity and how you can be more efficient with your time - and I’ve heard from many of you that it’s been helpful in how you go about your day. Well today’s post is related...and is a short one because it’s a simple message: every day, write out a list.

One of things I love to do is check things off a list. And typically that list is how I begin my day. It’s as simple as taking a sheet of paper, a pen and a few minutes by yourself to list all those things that need to be attended to. Often I will get just the first few items on the list done. Which is fine. The reason they were first is because they were the most critical. On today’s list was this blog. Now it’s a check mark and an opportunity to move on to the next item.

Simple thought. Simple message. Simple to do. Simpler not to do. Make a list – it’ll change your day!

It’s a good life!

Brian

All too often it’s easy to get distracted. We live in a world that demands our attention from every angle and there are countless ways we find ourselves pulled off task. Keeping things simple is key. And the key to keeping things simple is making them doable.

There are three things you can do today to increase your productivity and shore up your peace of mind. 

1. Focus
2. Take a break
3. Focus again

1. Focus
Multi-tasking is often held up as a skill, but in reality when we are totally focused and consumed by one task that is often the area in which we excel. Make a list of what you need to get done in a day, then pick the highest priority and get to work.

2. Take a break
I’ve spoken about the Tony Schwartz book ‘The Power of Full Engagement’ many times and it’s a great read to help you in the area of rest and recovery. What you need to remember is this one thing: Take a break. We are not designed to go full tilt all the time. Rest so that you can go again. Refuel so that you are ready for the next task.

3. Focus again
Move on to the next thing on your list. It’s as simple as that.

Productivity does not mean busy. It’s means achieving those things that are most important. Follow these simple steps and watch your task list disappear.

It’s a good life! 

Brian

We're back to work and fired up here at Buffini & Company and while this is a pretty positive place to come to work, there's no doubt that a little R&R is just the tonic. Our break over the holidays has restored and renewed our energy and we're ready for 2012.

Too often, we forget that we do not have endless supplies of energy. No matter how much we enjoy being around people, even the most gregarious amongst us needs to take time to be quiet and alone with our thoughts. Did you do get a chance to do that over the break? It's so important and while it can seem like an easy thing to do...it's also easy not to do. One of the best things you can do for yourself is to just simply 'be' for a moment. Taking a time out is good for your health, your peace of mind and also for your loved ones. Oh, by the way...by taking time out, you gain perspective that helps your business.

Here's to a great 2012. Follow the energy principle and be good to yourselves.

It's a good life!

Brian