After all, the rewards of productivity are great: a stronger sense of personal satisfaction, clients who are pleased, and an increase in income.
Here are 9 productivity tips and concepts that can help you start the year off right.
Tip #1. Forget multitasking. Studies show that staying focused on one task is more efficient than trying to do too many things at once. It seems like a no-brainer but for those of us who come from a corporate environment, the bad habit can be become ingrained.
Tip #2. Take frequent short breaks. This is the productivity secret of many of the copywriters I interviewed this year. Break every 45 minutes for at least 5 minutes, and longer whenever you feel the need. You'll work faster and better after a break.
Tip #3. Eat breakfast. Not only will it get your brain going but it will help you keep weight off over the long term. Just make sure it's quality food!
Tip #4. Get some exercise before going to work. When I go hiking, yoga or even 2-miles of walking, I'm a different person when I sit down to the computer. I can go from sluggish and disengaged from eager to start a new day. The extra energy it provides is remarkable!
Tip #5. Master deep breathing. Nothing helps you control stress or anxiety better (unless you're on the hard stuff :). Deep breathing is fast, simple, healthy and mind clearing.
Tip #6. Create a custom daily schedule that also takes into account your short- and long-term goals. In my copywriting career I make new daily schedules every year.
Tip #7. Keep hydrated. Put a large pitcher of water in your office and make sure you get through it each day. This is a tip few people associate with heightened productivity.
Tip #8. Hand off non-copywriting jobs to assistants. In the olden days few copywriters had assistants. Today the work life is more complicated. Let someone else load your tweets and do the accounting.
Tip #9. Know your "why." The most productive people are those who are passionate about their work. Identify what makes you passionate about your work and remind yourself frequently. It's passion that turns people into superstars!
Chris Marlow
The Original Copywriters Coach
Achieving Goals Through Trusted Advice™ Since 2003
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