Don’t deny it, we all desire to be more productive. Increased productivity can lead to greater success. Greater success leads to increased freedom. May is Mental Health Month and it got me thinking, what separates the uber-productive entrepreneurs of the world from those that let distractions drive them crazy and decrease their productivity? Here are four secrets of highly productive people.
1. They master the Pomodoro technique
The Pomodoro technique is where you time yourself working. You work for 25 minutes then take a 5-minute break. Sound complicated? The advantages of this technique are surprisingly simplistic.
Various research suggests that the brain can only focus (really focus) for 25 minutes at a time. This means that our brain is not designed to wait four hours for a break. Give it a try. Did you see your productivity increase?
2. They learn to say no
This is one of the main mantras of Apple founder, Steve Jobs. Learning to say no to things that are not part of of your existing plan can be hard. However, by denying things other than priorities you open yourself up to increased productivity on tasks that matter. Maybe there’d be no Apple today if he didn’t stand on this principle.
In the workplace, saying no can be tricky since we all want to be nice with each other. But if you’re really willing to apply this concept, don’t worry, there are numerous ways to politely and effectively say no. Practice makes perfect. Start doing more today by taking on less.
3. They enjoy themselves and embrace solitude
Being alone doesn’t necessarily translate to boredom. Highly productive people enjoy being alone. They have developed their own personal sense of solidarity. Others claim that being alone makes them more focused. Isolating yourself can lead to clarity and usher in some of your most creative and productive work.
4. They avoid TV
People who tend to be more productive are those who skip watching television. For them, TV’s are distractions. They’ll eat away at time that could otherwise be used towards being productive.
Easy-peasy, right? You’re ready to master productivity. In recognition of Mental Health Month, do you have any tips to add?
