As entrepreneurs and high-achievers we’re all constantly searching for an “edge.”
We always want to get more done and our days never seem long enough.
The tips I'm sharing below don't quite involve waving a magic wand…
But they will help make your to-do list disappear in a fraction of the time it normally takes.
#1: Cut Your Deadlines In Half
This might sound counterintuitive or even stressful.
But let me explain…
Most people wait until the last minute to complete tasks and hit their deadlines.
If your deadline is 4 weeks away — even if you do a few bits and pieces earlier…
Chances are you’re going to wait until week 3 to complete 90% of the work on that project.
It's just human nature.
So by cutting your deadlines in half you force yourself to start sooner and get the project done quicker.
**BONUS** this also frees up your time / head space for other projects or doing things you enjoy.
#2: Time Block
The basic idea here is to create 3-5 time blocks each day to plan out your workflow.
I like doing four or five 90-minute blocks, depending on the day.
This is an easy way to organize your work as efficiently as possible — starting with your top priorities then progressing on to lower priority items.
For example, I might spend my first two blocks writing sales scripts or marketing material…
My third block replying to important emails…
And my last block reviewing applicants for a position I’m hiring.
What you do in each block is up to you.
But whatever your day looks like…
When you follow this approach it will help you to stay focused, disciplined, and consistent throughout the week.
#3: Erase Off Your To-Do List
Most of us use some form of daily to-do list as a guide to stay on top of things.
Some days your to-do list might be extra long…
But I’ve found this is often unnecessary.
Here's my challenge to you:
Each day, try to "Erase" at LEAST 1-2 items off your list.
I know this is hard because people like you and I feel like we have to do EVERYTHING.
But from my own experience and working with thousands of clients…
When we shrink down our to-do list just a little bit…
It relieves stress, creates a sense of empowerment, and allows us to be more focused and productive.
So, starting tomorrow…
Take a look at your to-do list and challenge yourself to "Erase" any tasks off that list that are not urgent, or likely to move the needle forward in your business.
If erasing simply means delegating more… that's great too!
The objective is for you to shrink YOUR to-do list each day.
#4: Take More Breaks
Yes. I am giving you permission to take more breaks during the day / week.
As much as we convince ourselves we can grind all day long and “be the hardest worker in the room”…
The truth is we need breaks, time away from our screens, and the chance to refresh and recharge.
There are many different ways to do this.
But one of my favorites is to take micro breaks.
What works well for me (and many others) is to take 3-4 short (15-30 minute) breaks during the workday.
And if you follow the time blocking strategy I mentioned above…
Then adding these quick breaks between each time block works perfectly.
You could go for a walk. Grab a snack. Play with your dog. Meditate. Take a cat nap. Spend 15 mins on a hobby — whatever.
The purpose is to step away from work for a moment and give yourself some headspace to refocus.
If you’re someone who feels guilty taking breaks from work… don’t.
It will only help your productivity and allow you to get MORE done.
I promise.
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So there you have it…
4 simple productivity hacks that — especially when combined — will make your to-do list disappear in no time flat.
I strongly recommend giving these a try ASAP.
Let me know how it goes!
Success Loves Speed,
Craig
PS - If you’re ready to 2X your income (or more) while working 10 less hours per week...
... Just REPLY to this email with the words “2X 10 LESS” and we'll set up a time to chat with you to find out if we can help.
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