Plan Your Day Yesterday

I used to go to work with an idea in my head of everything I wanted to accomplish. By the end of the day I would sit back a realize I didn’t a thing I wanted to do completed. As I would begin a task something would always come up and take my attention away. I would get frustrated with myself and sooner or later give up trying to get anything done.

Then I learned about making lists. It was a game changer...I thought. I would get the tasks I wanted in my head on to a list on paper. I thought that would change everything, and it did help a little, but things still came up. My attention would be redirected, and I would never get to check many things of that list.

Finally, I realized that organization and planning was the key to my daily productivity. As a leader in any organization, I realized that people are always wanting your attention. An employee needs to be trained, another has a complaint, yet another has to be coached about a behavior problem. Distractions will always be there throughout your day, so plan for them.

Planning and anticipating for the day ahead is an excellent way to be more productive and accomplish more. It starts with sitting. down for about 10 to 15 minutes the day before and setting up your task list and calendar.

Plan the Day Before

Planning is more than just writing out your tasks and checking your calendar. It’s about anticipating what could come up tomorrow. Consider all the things going on in your life and work and try to anticipate what might happen. If you’ve had an employee calling off work a lot, consider an alterernative employee that might be able to come in. If you have a manager that is always demanding, consider what he or she may need tomorrow and put that in your plan.

Tackle the Toughest Task First

The toughest task is always the most dreaded and the easiest to put off until later. The best practice is to get it done as soon as possible. This will give you a sense of accomplishement and the rest of your tasks won’t seem as daunting.

Stick to Your Plan

You will inevitably get interruptions throughout your day. It’s ok, you planned this. Simply take care of the issue quickly or schedule a time when you can focus your full attention to the matter. Protecting your producitvity time isn’t a failure, it’s a win. You will find when you prioritize your time and energy you will be even more productive.