The First 2 Hours: 4 Tips to Be Productive, Not Busy
Dec 19, 2023
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Donna McGeorge, productivity coach, author, and speaker challenges traditional notions of time management and productivity. She emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the first two hours of the day and shares tips on saving time and increasing productivity. The podcast explores the annoyance with current concepts of time management, the importance of balancing productivity and personal life, and the benefits of operating at 85% efficiency to avoid burnout.
Structuring your day according to your body clock can maximize productivity by focusing on mentally demanding tasks in the morning and routine tasks in the afternoon.
Operating at around 85% productivity, allowing for breaks and downtime, can actually increase productivity and reduce burnout.
Deep dives
Paying Attention to Your Body Clock
To maximize productivity, it's important to pay attention to your body's natural rhythms. Studies show that people are most mentally alert and productive in the morning, making it the best time for focused mental work. Afternoons are better for routine tasks that don't require as much brain power. By structuring your day according to your body clock, you can make the most of your energy and accomplish more.
Working at 85% instead of 100%
Contrary to the belief that we need to be 100% productive 100% of the time, studies have shown that operating at around 85% productivity is optimal. Giving yourself a 15% buffer and allowing for breaks and downtime can actually lead to increased productivity. It's important to release the pressure of perfectionism and focus on consistent progress rather than overexerting yourself. By doing so, you can get more done and reduce burnout.
Booking Meetings with Yourself
Setting aside dedicated time for yourself on a regular basis is crucial for productivity. By booking meetings with yourself, you create protected time to catch up on tasks, plan, and reflect. This time allows you to avoid feeling overwhelmed by back-to-back meetings and provides a buffer for unexpected events. Taking control of your schedule and giving yourself uninterrupted time can greatly enhance your productivity.
Doing Things Your Future Self Will Thank You For
Making decisions and taking actions that benefit your future self can have a significant impact on productivity. Whether it's meal planning, organizing your belongings, or preparing for the next day's tasks, these proactive steps save time and reduce stress. Thinking ahead and taking care of important details now can set you up for success and make your life easier in the long run.
This episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct, or indirect financial interest in products, or services referred to in this episode.
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