Sometimes when we’ve got a lot to do, it can be extremely overwhelming. I know a lot more of us are working from home right now as well, which is a big shift! Trying to get things done from home can be a challenge when you’re first getting into it, so I’ve put together a list of my top 10 tips to boost your productivity.
I hope you find this helpful if your workflow has recently changed, or if you’re simply looking for a way to streamline your creative work, or if you’ve got a big project that you’ve been wanting to get done but aren’t quite sure where to start!
1. Make a List!
There is nothing more satisfying than making a task list and checking things off! I always find that my mind is so much clearer when I’m able to get everything I need to get done written down where I can see it. It’s also helpful to prioritize the tasks based on time sensitivity so I know what to work on first.
Whenever I don’t finish all my tasks for the day, I simply move those over onto my list for the next day. It gives me a little peace of mind as well, so I know nothing gets forgotten.
2. Work in Batches
If I ever have multiples of a type of content I need to create like social media posts/captions, product descriptions, mockup photos, it saves me so much time to work in batches. So basically, while I’m in the zone writing an instagram caption, I can just knock out several right then and there!
3. Have a Designated Work Space
If you’re working from home, or if you’re looking to increase your creative productivity, a designated work space is essential. Treat it as if you were “going to the office,” so when you sit down in this space, you’re ready to work. You’ll be less likely to be distracted by other things that you can do around your home, too!
Plus, it’s a really fun opportunity to kit out your space with your favorite supplies and artwork that inspires you.
4. Keep Your Work Space Clean
I’ll go ahead and admit now that I am not the most organized person, haha. But I do find that the more cluttered my work space is, the more cluttered my brain is. And when my brain feels cluttered, I have a harder time concentrating on what I’m working on.
I recommend, if you can, to straighten up your space at the end of each day. It sets the stage for a successful work day the next time you sit down!
5. Minimize Interruptions
Interruptions aren’t always something we have control over, but there are steps that we can take to minimize them when we can! A simple way to start would be by shutting the door to your work space if you can. I also recommend turning off push notifications on your phone, particularly for email and social media!
6. Don’t Check Email First Thing in the Morning
Emails tend to be and endless spiral that end up taking way more time than you intend! I recommend that instead of checking email first thing in the morning, use your best energy on your most important project for the day. You can always check email a little bit later in the day!
7. Find Ways to AutomateIf you’ve got a lot on your plate, with not enough time to get it all done, it helps to automate things when you can! Set up auto pay on bills, try out grocery delivery, etc. to save time. Every minute adds up!
8. Focus on One Task at a Time
Multitasking doesn’t actually help you to get stuff done more quickly – this really goes hand-in-hand with time batching. It can be really tempting when you have multiple deadlines, or multiple projects that you want to work on all at once, to juggle working on them throughout the day to get them (theoretically) done faster. In reality, trying to multitask ends up just taking you more time in the long run.
It can be incredibly hard to switch gears, and by trying to work on multiple things at once you’re essentially creating your own distractions and interruptions. Instead, try focusing on one task at a time. Get that done, check it off your list, and then move on. You’ll be surprised how quickly you can work this way!
9. Just Take the Next Step
Sometimes we can get in our own way. New projects can be daunting, and a blank canvas can stop us in our tracks! My biggest advice is to just jump in, get one thing done, take that next step – however small it may be. Doing something is always better than doing nothing!
I remember my mother giving me advice like this when it comes to getting a lot of things done around the house. When I looked at all of the things I need to do, or clean, it would be overwhelming. So she always told me to start with something small, get that done, and then it might lead me into doing something else. And you know what, it ALWAYS works. Seriously, every time.
And it’s the same with creative work. Start with something small, and see where it leads. You will be surprised!
I hope that you found a few of these tips helpful! I truly believe that we are all capable of achieving what we put our minds to! I’m cheering you all on!
