Daily Productivity Tips to Avoid Burnout
‘Growth is not Linear’
Prints available upon request ~ helen@therisingspace.co.uk
Rethinking Productivity: How to Be Intuitively Productive
Productivity isn't just about input and output. Do you find yourself struggling to "do it all" or constantly trying to prioritise an endless list of tasks? Maybe you're downloading the latest app to micro-manage your efficiency, yet still feeling anxious even after ticking off tasks. If that sounds familiar, I invite you to pause, grab a soothing drink, and read on.
Since the invention of clocks and watches, we've been hyper-aware of time, often trying to cram as much work into the day as possible. Samuel Pepys, the famous English diarist, remarked on how the introduction of clocks increased people's anxiety:
"But, Lord! To see how much of my old folly and childishness hangs upon me still, that I cannot forbear carrying my watch in my hand in the coach all this afternoon, seeing what o’clock it is a hundred times..." Samuel Pepys
Our obsession with time can drive us into a state of unproductivity—either through burnout or by hopping between tasks without finishing anything. But what if there’s a better way to be productive?
Embrace Intuitive Productivity
Instead of viewing productivity as a race against the clock, try embracing intuitive productivity. This means structuring your to-do list based on your energy and mood, not just the task's urgency. While deadlines do matter, starting with tasks that engage you can make the rest of your workload more manageable.
How to Structure Your Day for Success
Limit Your Task Load: Focus on just one or two key tasks per day. Prioritise them based on enjoyment, importance, and the time required.
Take Regular Breaks: Setting a timer can enhance your workflow by incorporating regular breaks for movement and mental rest. I recommend working for 25 minutes followed by a 5-10 minute break. Research shows that this approach boosts productivity instead of hindering it.
Work in Alignment: Choose tasks that resonate with your current energy levels. When you start with something that feels good, it’s easier to transition to the next item on your list.
Check-In with Yourself: After completing your tasks, assess your energy. Take a moment to appreciate what you've accomplished before deciding if you’re ready for more.
Productivity Isn't Just About Doing More
Remember, productivity isn't solely about how much you accomplish or how you spend your time. Intuitive decisions are often more valuable than pushing out work that doesn’t align with you. Start from a place of strength, authenticity, and alignment.
Sometimes, the most productive choice you can make is to do less—or even nothing at all.
Prioritise yourself and book a one-to-one coaching session with me
These sessions provide a dedicated space to explore your personal needs, prioritise self-care, and develop lasting wellbeing practices. You also have the option to incorporate cacao into the session. Additionally, we can focus on boosting your productivity and creativity by helping you align your tasks with your energy levels, making space for more intuitive and sustainable approaches to work and life.
