Boost Productivity

Improve Your Productivity

Did you know the average person wastes on average twenty two hours per week on tasks that could be automated or delegated. That’s nearly a full day per week, or fifty two days a year, that's enough time for a whole new holiday!

Go on grab your bathing suit, cos we're off. I'm just kidding, but can you imagine how we can improve productivity if we claw back all that time. Here's how I made a difference.

In this article:

Improve Your Productivity
Twenty Four Hours
Hamster Wheel Syndrome
Handy Productivity Tips
Set Boundaries
Rest is Essential
Conducive Work Environment
Boost Productivity

blog / Boost productivity

Twenty Four Hours

It's astonishing to think about how much time we spend on activities that don't contribute to our goals or well being. I was once instructed to log everything I did in a day, from waking up until I went to bed. I discovered that my mobile phone, emails, Netflix, and chatting with family and friends dominated my day.


There's nothing wrong with being social, whether in person or digitally. However, if you complain about not having time to launch your new business idea but have watched every series on Netflix, the issue lies with your priorities, not the amount of time you have. Apparently time management is a thing.

Hamster Wheel Syndrome

I remember feeling like I was running on a hamster wheel, never making real progress despite working long hours. It wasn't until I learned how to identify my priorities and streamline my workflow that I started to see significant improvements in my productivity and overall well being.

I'd love to share some helpful tips from a dear friend who noticed I was struggling to manage my time. Thanks to their advice, I can confidently say I'm getting more done each day.

Handy Productivity Tips

1. Set Clear Goals: Determine what you want to achieve and how important it is to you. Rate your goal on a scale of 1-5 or 1-10. Start with the highest rated goals to tackle the most important tasks first, giving you a sense of accomplishment.

2. Delegate Tasks: If you're part of a team, pass tasks on to others when possible. If you're a one person team, the goal setting exercise is crucial. If a family member, partner, or friend can help, accept their assistance with open arms.
   
   

3. Break Down Goals: Understand the overall goal and break it into smaller tasks. This might seem obvious, but it's easy to overlook. Seeing gradual progress can be incredibly motivating.
   
   

4. Schedule Tasks: Keeping on track can be challenging. I recently heard on an Erika Taught Me podcast that if something isn’t scheduled, it doesn’t get done. I've adopted this into my work routine. If it’s not in my schedule, it’s not a priority. Ensure tasks get the visibility they need to be completed on time.
   
   

5. Cut Out Distractions: Minimise distractions by turning off notifications, maintaining a tidy workspace, and finding a quiet spot to work. Do whatever helps you focus better. For instance, a colleague of mine swears by listening to classical music.

Set Boundaries

Setting boundaries can be difficult, especially if you naturally like to help others. However, saying no is sometimes necessary to avoid taking on too much. Prioritise your tasks and communicate clearly when you can't take on more. You might be surprised by how understanding people can be.

This has always been a struggle for me. I was born to serve, and I truly excel in that role. So, when I need to say, "Hold up, wait a minute, stop," it doesn't feel natural at all. However, I've found that the thought of saying no is much worse than actually doing it for the first time.

One day, I was asked to do ten things and wanted to perform like an Olympic athlete. I prepared myself thoroughly, but when it was time to execute, I felt overwhelming anxiety. It was then that I realised I had taken on too much.

I had two choices: do ten things poorly or say no to at least five tasks. In those panic stricken moments, I gathered enough courage by talking to myself and said, "I'm sorry, but my priorities do not include your request. You'll need to find someone else." To my surprise, the response was, "OK, no problem. Thanks for letting me know."

All I can say is setting boundaries works.

Rest is Essential

Taking regular breaks is essential for maintaining productivity. Use methods like blocking out time in your schedule for specific tasks and sticking to it.

Much of what we've covered boils down to discipline and good time management. The more disciplined you are, the better your productivity will be. As always, do things your way and keep your eye on the prize.

Conducive Work Environment

Creating a conducive work environment is essential for enhancing productivity. A well organised, clutter free workspace can significantly reduce distractions and promote focus.

Incorporating elements such as proper lighting, ergonomic furniture, and a quiet atmosphere can minimise physical strain and mental fatigue, allowing for sustained concentration.

Personalising your space with items that inspire or calm you, like decor, plants, scent or artwork, can also boost morale and creativity. Additionally, maintaining a clean and orderly workspace helps keep your mind clear and tasks prioritized.

By designing a workspace tailored to your needs and preferences, you create an environment that supports efficiency, motivation, and overall productivity. Try out these tips, and you can simplify managing your time and tasks, making the process not only more efficient but also more enjoyable.

Frequently asked questions

What does the 1-3-5 productivity rule entail?

The 1-3-5 productivity rule involves prioritising tasks by completing one large task, three medium tasks, and five small tasks each day, thereby ensuring a balanced approach to productivity without becoming overwhelmed.

What is an essential element in enhancing productivity?

An essential element in enhancing productivity is effective time management, allocating specific time slots for tasks allows one to maintain focus and achieve goals more efficiently.

How to increase productivity through scent?

To increase productivity through scent, choose fragrances like rosemary, peppermint, or citrus, which are known to enhance focus, alertness, and mental clarity.

A well chosen scent can invigorate the mind, reduce stress, and create an environment more conducive to productive work.

What are the three fundamental principles of productivity?

The three fundamental principles of productivity are purpose, process, and people. Purpose gives direction, process ensures efficiency, and people involve collaboration, all of which contribute to achieving productive outcomes.

What strategies can you use to boost productivity?

To boost productivity, prioritise tasks, break projects into smaller steps, minimise distractions, and use tools like to-do lists or time tracking apps. Setting specific goals, taking regular breaks, and focusing on one task at a time also helps maintain high efficiency.

How might wax melts contribute to enhancing productivity?

Wax melts can enhance productivity by creating a calming atmosphere with pleasant scents, which can reduce stress and improve focus.

Fragrances like lavender or citrus can boost alertness and mental clarity, fostering a conducive environment for efficient work.

About Cayla

Our story begins in lockdown, in the era of solitude and isolation.

As the world slowed down and people sought comfort in the sanctuary of their homes, the concept of Cayla Henri's wax melts were born.