Happy Monday! Here’s to another week of Mindful Monday where I share tips that can help you start your week with a fresh start and right mindset.
As we approach the end of the year and prepare to step into the new, productivity takes on a different feel and meaning.
Personally, I’ve been mapping out how I want the next few months to look like and feel. And it’s feeling SO good to do that!
We only have a couple of days left of 2024! 🤯
So, if you haven’t already, now is your opportunity to tie up loose ends, reflect on what you’ve accomplished (or haven’t), and set the stage for success in the new year.
This week, I’m sharing 5 productivity tips to help you stay focused, set clear priorities, and manage your time effectively so you can feel accomplished without burning out.
1. Start with Your ‘Big 3’
Identify three key tasks or goals you want to accomplish before the year ends. These should be your top priorities—the things that will help you close this year with clarity and confidence.
Write them down and keep them visible as a reminder (obviously don’t make them unattainable like run a marathon!). 🏃♀️
Next, identify the top three goals you want to accomplish in the new year. This will help you get excited and look forward to getting started on them.
2. Embrace Time-Blocking
Time-blocking involves scheduling specific chunks of time for focused work on specific tasks.
Treat these blocks as non-negotiable appointments with yourself. Whether it’s 30 minutes or two hours, this focused time can dramatically boost productivity and help you set the tone for the new year.
There’s a thing called “Parkinson’s Law”. We use the amount of time we have to get something done.
Meaning if we give ourselves an hour for a task, it’ll take an hour. If we give ourselves a week for that same task, it’ll get done in a week.
Start the practice of time-blocking today and keep it going throughout January and beyond.
3. Remove Distractions
Create a workspace that minimizes interruptions. Put your phone on silent, close unnecessary tabs on your browser, and let others know when you’re in a focused work session.
This can include decluttering the space you’re choosing to work in and (if possible) shutting the door.
Clutter is a huge distraction. Especially if it’s in your chosen workspace.
4. Take Breaks Mindfully
Productivity isn’t about working non-stop. Short, intentional breaks help recharge your brain.
Go for a short walk. Call a friend. Play a round of solitaire. 🃏
Maybe set a timer on your phone and try the Pomodoro Technique: 25 minutes of focused work followed by a 5-minute break.
5. End Your Day with a Plan for Tomorrow
It’s helpful to take five minutes at the end of each day to jot down your tasks/goals for the next day.
This small habit helps you start the next morning with clarity and direction (and if you’re like me…a reminder!) —and it can also set you up to hit the ground running in the new year.
Mindful Reflection:
“Productivity isn’t about doing more; it’s about doing what matters most.”
Take a moment to reflect: What are your ‘Big 3’ for wrapping up this year strong? Share them in the comments below or write them in your journal.
Here’s to a focused, intentional, and productive end to the year—and an exciting start to the next. See you next Monday!
P.S. Set yourself for more success in the new year by joining my new book club and taking my 5-day online course Your Worth and Your Wellness. We’re kicking these off in January!! So excited!!
