PRODUCTIVITY is a concept we all struggle with and no matter how many articles, advice or changes we’re trying to make, it’s still a challenge. It’s very easy to make yourself busy, but not productive at the same time.

At least that’s what I realised a while ago, during an Elite webinar at the Six Figure Mentors…I was a busy fool! When I got in front of my computer each morning, without even thinking, I was choosing the tasks I enjoyed doing and not the tasks that were urgent, money-producing, tasks that would move my business forward.

I had my AHA moment when I came across this 1 Page Productivity Planner that each one of us should use. It proved to be a great way for me to make my work and time more productive and I’m sharing it with you in hopes it will do the same for you guys.

The idea behind it is that you should ask yourself each morning “What outcome do I want to have today?”, “What do I want to achieve today?” and focus on 1 or 2 objectives per day. Then list down your absolute “MUST DO” priorities, preferably money producing tasks like lead generation, create content and add value for your blog, broadcasts, etc.

After you establish the 1 or 2 projects for that day, break down each project in 5 smaller tasks and write them down your list. Even a big and daunting project will be easier to complete when you break it down into smaller tasks. Every time you complete one, cross that off…people love to cross things off a list since the brain gives you a bit of a high every time you do it by releasing a small dose of dopamine (the happy hormone). Afterwards, list down the people you need to reach out to and the people you are waiting upon, in order to complete one of the projects.

The purpose of actually printing the productivity sheet and fill it in every morning is to create a habit. The habit of working productively. Creating a habit, it’s a 30-day challenge. Yep, that’s very specific but it’s backed up by science. Here’s how:

• Willpower phase: the first 10 days you will need to make a conscious effort to fill in the form each morning. In this phase, you feel motivated, willing and keen.
• Excuse phase: the next 10 days are harder to overcome and most people don’t get pass this phase. But as soon as you realise you’re making excuses not to complete the task you’ve set for yourself, you’ll be able to get through it. As soon as you start making an excuse (I don’t have time…, It’s too late…, I’m too tired…etc) recognise it and put it off your mind! Stay focused on what the task is.
• Habit phase: after day 20, it gets easier. You’re already used to doing it and at this point you don’t have to put too much thought into it. It becomes natural. It becomes a habit.

You can apply these principals on whatever you want to achieve, in business or personal life: start jogging in the morning, write a blog post every day and add value, start drinking more water, etc.

This simple list helps keeping you focused. Each one of us finds themselves spending hours on Social Media, emails, news and having this list on your desk reminds you of what’s more important: socialising, being a busy fool or moving your business forward?