Do you identify with any of the following?
6. All the other projects have to be finished first
Often this is because we worry about missing deadlines, so making a note of due dates – and keeping it somewhere visible, or setting reminders – can help when juggling several projects.
7. My internet connection is down so I can’t work
Rather a sore point as, at the time of writing this post, my internet connection really is down (and will be for at least a week). But, with the help of family & friends I’ll be able to do some work online – after preparing it offline. (Sidebar: Without the temptation to ‘just look this up’ on the internet or have a quick look at Twitter, I’m finding it easier to stay focused on writing this week’s articles.)
8. I have to type up a detailed plan first
Usually a mindmap drawn on paper (or on a whiteboard then photographed) is quite good enough to get started. Keep the perfectionism for the work itself!
9. I’ve only got 15 minutes before my next call/meeting
There are always little tasks to do that will fit into these short time slots. Checking messages, acknowledging an email, or even engaging with a few people on Twitter.
10. I can’t get anything done when I’m out of the office
That’s not true now with smartphones – we can read & reply to emails, respond to and make phone calls and keep updated on Twitter & Facebook. And driving or travelling by train are both good opportunities to catch up with all those audio downloads!
Do any of the above stop you from being productive? Please share in the comments below – and a retweet would be much appreciated if you enjoyed this post!
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