NEW YEAR, SAME US.
Tips for a more productive 2020
Everyone knows the “New year, new me” trend that looms over us every January. Although the intention is good, it tends to make us feel below par, and down on ourselves for not being where we think we should be. Our advice is to use January to reset, and integrate positive habits for the year ahead. How much time do we lose beating ourselves up for not being who we should be by midnight on January 1st? Let’s remove the should and live in the now. Let’s take January back with less guilt for our shortcomings, and more motivation for our year ahead! Here are some tips and tricks we’ve found helpful when planning your year ahead:
We are aware that the majority of our members also have a home office. We are happy to provide a professional setting that can feel like a lifeline when you just need to get out of the house and check some things off your list, or meet with a client. Working in your PJs can be a godsend some days, but it can also create a blurred line between work and home. As freelancers, remote workers, and small business owners, it sometimes feels like we are always on. Allow yourself the freedom to unplug at the end of the day from time to time. A great way to do this is to create a definitive stop to your work day, whether you are here at The 808, or in your own bedroom. Your time and energy is valuable. Allow yourself the balance you need.
“In layman’s terms, time blocking is precisely what it sounds like it is – you allot portions of time on your calendar, both professional and personal, to various tasks on your to-do list. Then, you work uninterrupted on those tasks during prearranged windows of time throughout the workweek.”
It may seem like a pain, but the benefit of diligently organizing your time will result in a much more productive work day. Give it a try!
3. Make time for shmoozing
I can literally hear the eye rolls from all my fellow introverts out there, but this is a definite must. Networking is so essential, specifically in our community on Kauai. We feel personal relationships here on Kauai and among our members have a positive impact on business success. We are all just people trying to do our best in a field we hope to excel in. Although it can be intimidating, seeking out a relaxed networking event in your area, and committing to one event per month will certainly improve your professional position. For example, we host one happy hour event, and one lunch time networking event per month to encourage members to connect with each other. These are priceless opportunities to exchange ideas, and even more importantly, seek out resources when you are stuck!
4. Create monthly (attainable) goals
For those of you who live for lists, this one will make you happy. We’ve found it beneficial to make a list of short-term goals each month, with the option of ongoing long-term goals as well. Go easy on yourself! Rome was not built in a day. Don’t feel like every month must include monumental goals. Perhaps this month you simply aim to implement some new healthy business (or lunch!) habits. Not everything has to be life and death. Keep ongoing long-term goals in mind, and note how you are taking steps towards them each month. You will be amazed by how much gets done a little at a time.
5. Make time to unwind
This one may seem obvious, but is sometimes the most difficult to achieve. A rested mind is more productive in the long run, so remember to take care of yourself. Consider downloading a meditation app, and challenging yourself to do at least two meditations a week. We’ve found that winding down with a meditation near bedtime helps the mind ease into sleep mode – our most valued tool for a productive mind!
