10 Simple Ways to Increase Productivity for Creative Entrepreneurs

The balance of life and work can be very demanding. Our full-blown schedules dictate our daily routines that can sometimes make us feel scattered, stressed and pulled in so many directions.

Here are ten ways to keep it simple:

1. Create a to-do list with 3 to 5 action steps per day. Sometimes, we add too much on our plate by making a long list of duties and never being able to scratch anything off the list because it’s just too much to do in a day, week or month.
2. Pair down your weekly meetings or activities. In this new millennium, we are definitely social creatures and love to connect, collaborate and spend time brainstorming or resolving issues. Make your time count. Have an agenda with clear goals and action plans. Make sure the scheduled time is well-spent and worthwhile. Nothing is worse than re-hashing that same project over again or not being prepared or organized for an appointment. Sometimes, less is more so plan accordingly.
3. Be aware of energy drainers. Take a look at your environment. Is it a positive or negative space? Is morale low? Whether it’s a person, place or thing, eliminate anything that is draining your energy. Unfortunately, if it’s a job, family or even the world news, you will have to make adjustments or compromises to regain your peace of mind.
4. Get off the internet. Be aware of time-drainers. Although technology is a productive tool, it can also waste valuable time. Be conscious how much time you spend online, especially on social media. It may be challenging if you operate an online business but setting priorities and incorporating automated tools will make a big difference in your productivity.
5. Trust your intuition. When you trust your instincts, you avoid senseless mistakes or obstacles that may cost you additional time, frustration or energy. Have you ever felt like you should have turned down an alternate street but decided to keep going and then realized that you were stuck in traffic due to a car accident or construction on the road? Trusting your gut saves you time, money or energy in the long run.
6. Delegate your tasks. Don’t be afraid to share responsibilities. If you are a perfectionist or control freak, you may find it difficult to assign projects to others because you’re afraid they do a sloppy job, not complete it by the deadline or may not complete the task at all. However, if you have a great team of people around you. It works to your advantage. Remember, it works for the whole T.E.A.M (Together Everyone Achieves More).
7. Eat balanced meals. Don’t skimp on nutritious meals, especially breakfast. Make sure you’re eating healthy and getting a variety of fruits and veggies. Don’t forget to drink water to hydrate the body.
8. Get proper exercise. No matter how busy your life may be, you should include at least 15-20 minutes of exercise in your daily routine. That also includes stretching and raising the heart rate.
9. Go to bed early. Make sure you are getting enough sleep. The body needs to repair the cells in the body which aid against sickness and disease. When you’re fully rested, it decreases stress, shifts mood, and energy levels. You will also have clarity of mind with the opportunity to begin the day refreshed and renewed.
10. Take a break. Allow yourself time to breathe. It’s more productive to take short breaks during the day than to jump from one responsibility to another. This also includes taking a vacation. You are much more focused, regain concentration and energy. When you take the time to let it go, breathe and embrace the moment, you see things from a new perspective.