7 Helpful Habits for a More Productive You

A productive day isn’t just about getting a lot done, it’s about getting the important stuff done—and it doesn’t happen by accident. You need to have an effective plan in place for annihilating that to-do list and finding greater satisfaction in life as a result. Here are some tips and tricks to help you do just that:

1. Have a game plan

Sometimes we’re not productive because we don’t know where to start. Take five minutes the night before or first thing in the morning to prioritize your day and make a clear plan of action. While planning, try diffusing an inspiring blend like Highest Potential™ and make sure to ask yourself: “Will this task get me closer to what I want to achieve?”

2. Get off to a good start

Set yourself up for success each day by creating and sticking to a good morning routine. Rise early and eat a healthy breakfast, exercise, or tackle a nagging task. This productive jump-start will set the tone for the rest of your day. Need a little extra help getting out of bed? Try diffusing a bright, sunny scent like Citrus Fresh™ to help make early mornings more pleasant. Check out the YL Blog Recipe tab or Healthy & Fit tab for more ideas to better your morning routine.

3. Tackle the most important tasks first

If you could get only one task completed today, what would it be? Make that task your No. 1 priority. Time and energy are limited resources, so don’t procrastinate! You don’t want to run out of steam before getting to the things that really matter. Diffuse Brain Power™ essential oil blend to help promote a sense of clarity and focus when you need it most.

4. Take it one at a time

Multitasking is actually less productive than you might think. Research shows that the brain can only successfully focus on one thing at a time. Give each task your full and undivided attention to get it done as efficiently as possible. Then move on to the next item on your list and do the same.

Make sure to have a plan for dealing with distractions as they come along. For example, take a quick inhale of Surrender™ essential oil blend to help cast off inhibitions that may be limiting your potential. You can also keep an idea book close by to record distracting thoughts and ideas so you can come back to them at the right time.

5. Take breaks

Focusing on one thing for too long can actually cause you to get less done. Take short, designated breaks to keep your mind fresh and on task. Pushups, meditation, yoga, and even the fresh, rejuvenating aroma of essential oils like En-R-Gee™ or Jade Lemon™ can all help you do a quick reset. Just make sure to set a strict time frame for your break or that brief meditation session could easily turn into a three-hour nap.

6. Keep your list close by

Even the best planned days can get turned upside down when life throws a curve ball. Having your list of tasks close by is a great way to readjust and reprioritize when things don’t go as planned. Diffuse a calming oil like Lavender and remember that as long as you’re making the best use of the time that you have available, you are having a productive day. Consult your task list whenever you have free time and select the most appropriate task to complete.

7. Relax and reflect

Make sure to also include time to rest and recharge in that busy schedule. Apply Stress Away™ to your wrists and reflect on your day—the parts that worked well and the parts that didn’t. Readjust to continue moving toward being as productive as possible. Not only will this help you get more done, but it’s also a great chance to let your mind unwind and decompress. Take the time to celebrate all you’ve accomplished and reward yourself for the hard work you’ve put in!

This blog was reprinted with permission from the Young Living website.