During the summer months, my mantra is “work smarter, not harder” because I want more free time to enjoy the beautiful weather.

I thought I would share some of my favorite productivity tips and encourage you to spend less time working this summer!

Tip #1: Timing

Do most of your work at your most effective time of day. Everyone has a preferred time when they are most alert and productive. And interestingly, just because you’re a morning person does not automatically mean you should do the most demanding work early in the day. Sometimes, your less-than-optimal times are your best times. Your goal is to find the time for your unique situation and get work done.

Tip #2: Eat the Frog

This is a tip by productivity consultant Brian Tracy. First, identify your frogs – the biggest, most challenging things on your plate. Then start each day by “eating the frog” and tackling that big, difficult task. Even if you can’t finish the entire task, dedicate your first hour to working on it and before you know it, the work will be done! This helps you overcome procrastination and feel a sense of accomplishment.

Tip #3: Automate

Find ways to automate administrative tasks. I schedule many meetings, and one of my favorite automations is Calendly with integration to Zoom. People can view availability on my calendar and select a meeting time in Calendly. Once they confirm the meeting, it automatically sets up a Zoom meeting and sends both of us a calendar invitation with all the details!

Tip #4: Create Templates

Templates are great because they let you accomplish repetitive tasks efficiently and consistently. For instance, I use a template to draft “Amy’s Insights” every week. I have a folder of templates for the various documents and communications I regularly use for my business. Take a moment to look through your repetitive tasks and find out which ones you can do with a template.

Tip #5: Say “No”

This is hard, especially if you’re ambitious or a people pleaser. Saying “no” is a skill you can develop over time. The good news is that if you practice saying “no,” you become better at it. Make it a point to prioritize your tasks and focus your efforts on those that matter most. Saying “no” can easily make you three times as productive because it frees you up to focus on what matters to you.

Being more intentional about managing your time and maximizing your productivity leads to improved work-life balance. Even if you only shave a few minutes off a task, it all adds up to save you a lot of time over the long haul.

Contact me with your questions about individual coaching, group coaching, talent development, and speaking engagements.