Time management is particularly challenging for startups and entrepreneurs; as the Chief Everything Officer so many things demand your urgent attention. Managing your time is not just about getting things done, it’s also about managing your mindset. If we let stuff drag on, it weighs on mind, clogging up valuable creativity space.

The key to having a productive day is to start your morning off right, with rituals and of course discipline; I came across this infographic from Entrepreneur Magazine that cleverly visualises morning habits of some of the world’s most successful people.

Since taking on these tips my stress levels have reduced enormously, waking up earlier gives you more time to implement empowering rituals – but I’m still working on the snooze thing!

 

The key to productivity is having a TO DO and Don’t Do list.

Starting off on the right foot

Creating empowering morning rituals is important because they eventually become habits. Instead of rushing out of bed to get on with the day, carve out 30 minutes in the morning with rituals you could follow every day to quiet your mind and get ready for the day.

Plan your day the day before

The last thing I do in my working day is plan my next day. Do this at the end of your work day not at the end of your day, otherwise it ruminates and you’ll find it difficult to go to sleep.

Planning the day before saves your headspace for more creative work first thing in the morning.

Don’t do

Don’t check email, social media, watch TV or news items first thing in the morning. I keep my mobile reception off from 8pm until 8am so I’m not tempted by flashing lights on my phone. When you’re in control of what goes in your head last thing and first thing in the morning, you’ll considerably reduce your stress levels, you’ll be proactive rather than reactive, and you’re making space for inspiration.

Over to you

Here’s one action plan for you to get you rolling: make the last thing you do today, planning your day tomorrow. Instead of checking email, social media, or news first thing in the morning, do the top two most important things first.

Let me know how it goes 🙂

What’s your top productivity tip?