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If you're like most of us, you've tried time and time again to build positive habits and break negative ones, only to find yourself back where you started. Don't worry; you're not alone. Habit formation is a difficult process, but it's not impossible.
In this blog, we will delve into the concept of productivity habits and how they can help streamline your work, reduce stress, and increase overall satisfaction and accomplishment. We'll start by defining what a productivity habit is and then guide you through a four-step plan to master one habit over the next 90 days.
By committing to change, asking hard questions, and developing a plan that works, you'll be well on your way to building a foundation of positive habits that will support your productivity and success. So join us on this journey to a more productive, fulfilled life!
We can't change our habits overnight, but we can change them one at a time.
Personal productivity is not a short game... you are in it for the long haul. Whether you are trying to control the chaos in your inbox, find ways to actually work on your to-do list, or learn to set healthy boundaries at work ... change doesn't happen overnight. Healthy productivity habits take time to develop and even more time to break bad ones. But that's okay because change is a journey, not a destination. And the best way to embark on this journey is by focusing on one small change at a time.
Let's define it: What is a productivity habit anyway?
A productivity habit is a behavior or routine that helps you more efficiently and effectively accomplish your tasks and goals. It's a habit you form deliberately and consistently practice over time to improve your productivity and effectiveness.
Examples of productivity habits include creating to-do lists that actually work, time-blocking your day, setting deadlines for tasks, using a specific method for staying organized, or monotasking. By developing productive habits, you can streamline your work, reduce stress, and increase your overall satisfaction and sense of accomplishment.
1️⃣ Master one productivity habit over the next 90 days
Over the next 90 days, you'll be challenged to establish a productive habit that will set the stage for further growth and success. The goal of this challenge is to develop a habit that will stick, so you can move forward with confidence and take on the next challenge.
By the end of these 90 days, you'll be amazed at the progress you've made and the habits you've formed. Not only will you have established a strong foundation for your productivity, but you'll also have gained a deeper understanding of what it takes to make a habit stick.
⭐ Let's start by identifying the things draining your time, attention, and focus. Set a timer for 2 minutes and write down everything that comes to mind.
⭐ Next, pick one thing that is your highest priority or is a building block for the rest of your list. Start there and focus on changing this one habit.
2️⃣ Commit and change your perspective
⭐ Write out a simple statement that will positively reinforce the commitment you are making to yourself. Here are some examples to get you started:
❌ I want to have better control of my inbox.
✔️ I am committed to reclaiming control of my inbox and using it as an effective tool for communication rather than allowing it to dictate my to-do list.
❌ I want more time to focus on things that are meaningful at work and less time focused on tactical items.
✔️ I am dedicated to allocating more time towards meaningful tasks at work and reducing the amount of time spent on less important, tactical items.
❌ I don't want to be reactive at work.
✔️ I am determined to shift from a reactive to a proactive mindset at work, proactively managing my tasks and priorities to increase my productivity.
❌ I don't want to feel overwhelmed and unproductive.
✔️ I am focused on creating a work environment that supports my productivity and allows me to make the most of my time and energy to focus on what truly matters.
3️⃣ Ask the hard questions
I firmly believe that if you don't make a plan, then you plan to fail. Take some time to consider the challenges you will need to overcome in building your new habit. What roadblocks will be in your way, and how will you get around them?
What are the current habits or behaviors preventing me from forming this new habit?
How can I anticipate potential distractions or obstacles that may come up during my efforts to form this new habit?
What are the most common reasons I have failed to maintain similar habits in the past?
What resources or tools can I utilize to help me stay motivated and on track when developing this new habit?
How can I reward myself for successfully integrating this new habit into my daily routine?
Are there any limiting beliefs or negative self-talk that may hinder my progress in developing this new habit?
How can I track my progress and measure the success of this new habit over time?
4️⃣ Tips for developing a plan that works
✅ Identify the habit you want to change and why it is important to you
✅ Write a focus statement to help you stay on track
✅ Create goals for your new habit and put them someplace you will see every day
💡I keep mine on my desktop wallpaper
✅ Schedule weekly check-ins and keep them
✅ Master the habit in 90 days
✅ Move on to the next habit you want to build
Happy Habit Building
The power of momentum can't be overstated when it comes to habit formation. So when trying to create lasting change in any area--whether through forming new habits or breaking old ones--it's important that we develop a plan to help us stay on track.
Developing a productivity plan can seem daunting at first, but it's well worth the effort. By taking the time to identify the habits you want to change and why they are important to you, writing a statement to keep yourself focused, setting goals, and scheduling time to check in on your progress, you can master any habit over a period of 90 days. By following these steps, you'll be on your way to becoming more productive and reaching your goals in no time!
Remember, every great journey starts with a single step, so don't be afraid to get started and take control of your life. Happy habit-building!