Create a distraction-free environment.
We know it’s tempting to pick up your phone and check your social media accounts, but it can be counterproductive. There are too many notifications coming through at every hour of the day, which can distract you from what you need to do. If you want to get things done, turn them off! To make sure this happens on a regular basis:
- Keep your phone in another room when working (or in the car if possible)
- Turn off all notifications for all apps on your phone and computer (iTunes Store, Facebook Messenger, etc.)
- Block websites that are distracting for you by using Freedom or similar software
Block out time on your schedule for important tasks.
Block out time on your schedule for important tasks.
I know it’s tempting to get a little work done at night after the kids have gone to bed and you’re exhausted. But if you block out several hours on your calendar every day as “Me Time” or “Office Time”, then it’s much harder for your brain to justify taking those hours away from whatever else you had planned.
If Me Time is important, don’t let anyone else schedule things during that time—especially not yourself! If someone asks if they can meet up during those hours, politely decline and offer an alternative time (or suggest they reschedule).
Use an accountability partner.
When you have a lot on your plate and it seems like there’s no way to get everything done, it may help to partner with someone who’s also trying to accomplish the same goal. This isn’t just about getting some extra help—it’s about holding each other accountable for making progress.
You can choose someone who you know will be supportive of your goals but also honest with their feedback (and vice versa). Meet regularly and discuss how things are going as well as what strategies are working best for both of you.
