What Is Productivity? — That’s A Good Question

Asking what is productivity is an essential question in getting stuff done. We often beat ourselves up for not being productive enough without understanding what it truly means.

This is not a play on words but an essential ingredient in maximizing our production and results. Without understanding the meaning of what we desire to attain, we significantly increase the probability of less than optimum performance.

 

“Productivity is never an accident. It is always the result of a commitment to excellence, intelligent planning, and focused effort.”

— Paul J. Meyer —

What is Productivity and “Why” Should We Be Productive?

When we desire to achieve some goal or objective it is not just about getting stuff done but how well we do it and also ensuring that we are focused on the correct tasks. It’s not about being busy, but effectively and efficiently doing things in a specific way that enables us to reach our destination.

The other important factor here is the “why”. We may have the correct means available to get it done effectively, but without knowing “why” we are doing it our efforts are much harder to sustain.

When we have the necessary clarity surrounding our objective, we are able to only focus on what is most important to us. Of course, there will always be some mundane tasks that seem boring and time-consuming but if they lead us in our desired direction we will be inspired to complete them or delegate the task.

When focused on a heart-felt desire we generate the emotional fuel to get it done.

A Few Comments on Goals

There are several ideas about goal-setting with many based on SMART goals. SMART is an acronym that stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Timely.

I agree with all of this except the timely part. Unless it is a production goal that requires us to complete by a specific time, I am not in favor of setting completion dates for our major goals and dreams.

The reason is that when we have a big goal we desire to achieve, there are many factors that we cannot control. Much will surface as we move forward in our daily activities including taking steps that we were not aware of when we started, and only appeared as we progressed along.

This eliminates a lot of stress and disappointment along the way. As long as we are inspired by our goal we will do what is necessary to achieve it and be willing to persevere when changes in direction are necessitated.

Of course, we will have time limits on completing certain tasks along the way as this keeps us moving in the right direction in a timely manner.

When we do need to set time limits for whatever reason, the key ingredient is to be flexible and aware that there most likely will be delays and changes in direction. We just don’t want to set ourselves up to quit.

What is Productivity — Let’s Get Some Stuff Done

Now let’s get specific and outline a few ways to create clarity around getting stuff done in our lives.

Here are a few ideas on how to proceed:

• Gain Clarity — understanding our priorities and goals is critical. What are we most passionate about?
• Prioritize Based on Importance — we will always have tasks that are not appealing but will gain priority when they lead to a desired end result. Do the highest-value tasks first.
• Schedule Tasks & Activities — it’s important to be organized and get stuff done as needed. As I mentioned previously, our large dreams and goals do not require a time limit as it is not possible to foresee the many changes that will be needed along the way as well as possible changes in direction. But as far as individual tasks are concerned they should be scheduled as to when they need to be completed. Also include time for breaks and relaxation as a reward for staying focused and on task. I like to work in 45 to 60-minute segments and then take 10 to 15 minutes to relax or do something fun. This breaks up the day and allows the needed recharging as we complete our work. This also makes it easier to avoid procrastination and distractions.
• Eliminate Distractions — getting lost on social media or checking emails can ruin our focus. Also, if working at home let all family members know what your schedule is and that you are not to be disturbed except for emergencies.
• Unnecessary Meetings — meetings should be scheduled as a vital part of increasing everyone’s productivity and not spending time on non-productive items.
• Productivity Tools — tools such as Evernote, Slack, Asana, Hubspot, and Trello help manage projects and tasks.
• Delegate — spend time on highest priority tasks and delegate as needed other smaller, time-consuming tasks.
• Organize Workspace — this is not about having an uncluttered and nice-looking workspace, but knowing where things are when you need them. A workspace may not look organized to others but all that matters is being able to locate stuff without delay.
• Self-Care — overwork doesn’t help. When properly organized with a plan in place all activities can be done effectively and efficiently with plenty of time for relaxation, exercise, healthy eating, and sufficient sleep.
• Self-Educate — learn new skills to keep up to date with the ever-changing landscape in technology and the specific market niche. There is plenty of information online as well as in-person workshops, courses, and seminars.
• Stay Inspired — by ensuring that we are pursuing our heartfelt desires we will set achievable goals and surround ourselves with supportive, positive, like-minded people. We can then enjoy the rewards of our efforts.

What Is Productivity? — It’s Time to Proceed

 

“Productivity is being able to do things that you were never able to do before.”

— Franz Kafka —

 

Being productive is not a complicated matter. In fact, it is rather simple when we have a few things in place, the most important being the clarity of “why” we are doing what we are doing.

When we are concentrated and focused on the correct objective, the means are naturally provided as we proceed down the road. It is at this point that we use our innate powers constructively as we generate emotional fuel to get stuff done.

We tap into the Creative Genius within ourselves that allows us to accomplish goals with abilities we never knew we possessed.

All that is required is to gain the needed clarity and then take the first step as all else will naturally follow.

Enjoy the journey,

Joseph William

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