100 Productivity Tips To Make 2024 Your Best Year Yet

Feeling overwhelmed by your to-do list and struggling to get things done? We’ve all been there.

This ultimate list of 100 productivity tips will give you actionable, easy-to-follow ideas that you can start implementing right away to boost your day-to-day productivity.

I know how frustrating it can be to feel like you are not making progress. With this guide, you’ll have the tools you need to optimize your time and resources, tune your mindset for maximum efficiency, and achieve more in less time.

Whether you are a solopreneur, a busy professional, a student, or just someone trying to slay big goals, this list has productivity tips for everyone.

Don’t let overwhelm, stress, and distractions hold you back! Use these 100 productivity tips to organize your routine and start taking control of your time and your life.

Choose your first area for productivity improvement:

• Time Management Tips
• Business Productivity Tips
• Personal Productivity Tips
• Planning Tips
• Workspace Productivity Tips
• Mindset Tips For Productivity
• Productive Workflow Tips
• Tips To Avoid Distractions

Time Management Tips

By mastering time management skills, you can significantly increase your productivity and accomplish more things that matter to you.

1. Block your most productive time

Identify your most productive time of day and block it out for your most important tasks. Whether it’s early morning, right after lunch, or late at night, this will allow you to focus and capitalize on those valuable hours.

It can be an hour or four hours, just don’t do anything else during that time. Remove all the distractions, make yourself unavailable, and use it as your deep focus time that actually brings you closer to your goal.

2. Use productivity tools that actually save you time

Productivity tools can be a great help, but make sure to test them for yourself and use the ones that actually save you time and streamline your workflow. From task managers to note-taking apps, find the tools that work for you and integrate them into your routine.

3. Break down your tasks

Big dreams are exciting but can also feel overwhelming when you don’t know where to start. This often leads to procrastination and no progress whatsoever.

When facing a large project or a heavy task, break them down into smaller, more manageable sub-tasks. This will help you stay focused and motivated, as well as give you a sense of progress as you complete each task.

Besides, crossing ten items off your list instead of one gives you a 10x boost of dopamine which is known to be helpful for self-motivation!

4. Understand urgency vs importance

It’s important to understand the difference between urgent and important tasks, and to prioritize accordingly. Use the time management matrix to categorize your tasks and make sure you are spending your time on what matters most.

5. Work in productive chunks

Working in productive chunks can help you avoid burnout and maintain focus. Try using Pomodoro timers to work in focused 25-minute increments, followed by a short break.

6. Batch emails

Email can be a major source of distraction, so try to batch your emails and set specific times during the day to check and respond to them. This can help you stay focused on other tasks instead of getting constantly distracted by the beeping of your mailbox.

In his book 4-Hour Work Week, Tim Ferris mentions that he checks emails once per week. While it’s not realistic for most of us, aim to be more intentional with your communications and respond to everything in bulk once or twice a day.

7. Use the timeboxing technique

Timeboxing is a technique that involves setting specific time limits for tasks and working within those constraints. This can help you stay focused and productive, and prevent tasks from dragging on for too long.

If you know yourself as a procrastinator or a perfectionist, this technique will keep your workflow under control.

You can start by signing up for one of the best timeboxing apps, adding your upcoming things to do, and dragging the most important tasks into your calendar.

8. Set specific deadlines

Setting specific deadlines can help you stay on track and ensure that you are making progress toward your goals.

Especially when there is no external deadline and nobody keeps you accountable, intentionally setting deadlines will create a feeling of urgency and ensure you actually do the task.

9. Use the 2-minute rule

The 2-minute rule is a quick productivity tip that involves immediately tackling small tasks that can be completed in 2 minutes or less. This can help you avoid tasks piling up and keep your to-do list manageable.

This technique is also useful for keeping your home and workplace organized and clean. Whenever you see something out of place, if it takes less than 2 minutes, go and fix it right away.

Be careful with this particular productivity rule: while it’s efficient, it is often overused by doing completely unnecessary tasks as a way of procrastinating on something important.

10. Evaluate your work with the 80/20 principle

The 80/20 principle suggests that 80% of your results come from 20% of your efforts. Evaluate your work regularly to make sure you are focusing your time and energy on the tasks that have the biggest impact and bring your long-term goals closer.

11. Overcome habitual procrastination

Procrastination can become a habit that affects our productivity and work quality. One way to overcome it is to start with small steps and build momentum toward tackling larger tasks.

Another approach is to use accountability measures, such as telling a friend or colleague about your goals. There are quite a few accountability partner apps that can make it easier for you to stop slacking.

By taking action and confronting your procrastination patterns, you will make progress toward your goals and feel more accomplished in your daily life.

12. Embrace the 5-second rule

Mel Robbins, the author of The 5 Second Rule, doesn’t believe in motivation. Her direct approach incorporates the so-called 5-second rule as a powerful tool for overcoming hesitation and taking action.

It’s as simple as it gets: count down from 5 and start doing the task immediately when you reach 0. Personally, I count from 3 instead, as 5 seconds is enough for my brain to start negotiating with me and generating excuses.

Whether it’s making a tough call, starting a new project, or even getting out of bed in the morning, this is a practical tool that helps you push yourself when you feel completely unmotivated.

13. Make good use of your time

Research shows that an average person only has two to three productive hours in a workday. Isn’t it crazy? No wonder people don’t get far with those New Year’s resolutions.

Make the most of your working hours by prioritizing your tasks and staying focused. Whether it’s setting specific goals for the day or limiting distracting apps, find the strategies that work for you and don’t spend your life like an average slacker.

Business Productivity Tips

Want to take your business to the next level? By implementing productivity strategies that work for you and your team, you can achieve greater efficiency and success for your company.

14. Keep all your projects organized

Keeping all your projects organized is key to running a successful business. Consider using task management tools to keep everything in one place and ensure you stay on top of deadlines.

Managing projects without a system can easily turn into chaos and even lead to business failure. Trying to keep everything in your head is a recipe for disaster. Find a tool that best suits your business needs and let it organize your workflow in the most effective way for you.

15. Say no to unnecessary meetings

As an entrepreneur, your time is valuable, and unnecessary meetings can be a major productivity killer. Before accepting any meeting requests, ask yourself if it’s truly necessary or if it can be handled via email.

By saying no to unnecessary meetings and only attending planned ones, you’ll be able to free up more time for the tasks that really matter and avoid wasting time on unproductive activities.

16. Keep your meetings short

When you do need to have a meeting, keep it short and to the point. Make sure there is a defined agenda and everyone stays on topic. Avoid unnecessary chit-chat or discussions that don’t relate to the meeting’s objective.

Short meetings can help everyone stay productive and focused while keeping things straight to the point and avoiding mental fatigue.

17. Have systems in place

Whether you are a solopreneur or a part of a huge company, it’s essential to have systems in place to streamline your workflow and save time. From creating a social media content calendar to setting up an email autoresponder, setting up systems can help you work more efficiently and reduce your workload.

This is one of the productivity tips for business owners that can’t be avoided if you want to achieve any kind of success.

18. Automate as much as possible

Automation can save you hours of work every week, freeing up time for more important tasks. Use modern software tools and apps to automate repetitive tasks: set up email campaigns, organize sales funnels, and schedule social media posts in advance.

Automating these tasks will help you shift focus from technical details to things that really matter for your business.

19. Avoid back-and-forth emails

Scheduling meetings can be a time-consuming process, especially when there are multiple people involved. To avoid unnecessary back-and-forth emails that eat the valuable time of both parties, use smart scheduling tools which allow you to share your open time slots and let others schedule a meeting based on everyone’s availability.

By using calendar management tools, you can save time and avoid the hassle of scheduling meetings manually via email.

20. Use integration tools

Good business integration software allows you to set up smooth business operations by integrating all your tools into one place. This way, you won’t waste time switching between different apps or programs.

With integration tools, you can also automate workflows and eliminate manual data entry from one app to another, saving you tons of time and improving your productivity.

21. Track your expenses right away

Tracking your business expenses right away can save you a lot of time and stress when it’s time to file taxes.

By keeping an organized record of all your expenses, you’ll be able to easily track your profits and losses, and make sure you are taking advantage of every tax deduction available to you. It may seem tedious at first, but it will ultimately save you a lot of headache and hours in the long run.

22. Use accounting software

In addition to the previous productivity tip for your business, this one takes you a step further.

Accounting software can help you manage your finances and stay on top of your business’s financial health. With accounting tools like Freshbooks or Quickbooks, you can automate invoicing, generate financial reports, and track expenses automatically by linking your bank accounts.

Using accounting software allows you to save time and avoid costly errors, which is not only good for your productivity but beneficial for your whole business’s success.

23. Use templates wherever possible

Templates can help you save time and ensure consistency across your projects.

There are many templates available for a variety of tasks, including website design, email marketing, and project management. By using templates, you can avoid starting from scratch each time and focus on the unique aspects of each project.

24. Use modern CRM tools

Customer relationship management (CRM) is an essential aspect of running a successful business. Modern CRM tools can help you manage your customer data and improve your customer interactions.

These tools offer features such as lead tracking, email marketing, and customer service management, making it easier to provide a high level of service and build long-term relationships with your customers.

25. Know what moves the needle

As a small business owner, it’s important to focus on activities that drive revenue and growth. Knowing what moves the needle means identifying the tasks that have the most significant impact on your sales success and prioritizing them instead of stuffing your days with unnecessary surface-level improvements.

As a recovering perfectionist, I know firsthand how easy it is to go down the rabbit hole of trying to make everything look amazing. You can spend days perfecting your website or hours writing an email that doesn’t even get opened!

Recognize these activities as time-wasters and use the timeboxing technique mentioned above to not give them more time than they deserve.

This may also mean saying no to non-essential tasks or delegating them to someone else so you can focus on what matters most.

26. Take a productivity course

Productivity is a skill that can be learned and improved upon. Taking a productivity course can help you learn new techniques, develop better habits, and get more done in less time.

Many courses nowadays allow you to see someone else’s workflow in action, which gives you a real feel of its potential for improving your productivity and achieving your business goals.

Personal Productivity Tips

Improving personal productivity involves maintaining a healthy lifestyle, truly understanding your goals, and seeking continuous self-development.

27. Find your productivity triggers

Discovering your productivity triggers can make a huge difference in how you approach tasks.

For example, my husband functions best with background music, while I prefer working in complete silence. Finding what works for you and using it on daily basis is a sure way to get more done.

Getting into a productive mood can be challenging, but once you find your productivity triggers, you can use them to your advantage. Sometimes taking a short walk or listening to an interesting podcast can help you get into a productive mindset and start working.

Experiment with different techniques until you find what gives you a source of motivation.

28. Have an effective morning routine

A productive morning routine can set the tone for the rest of the day. Whether it’s exercise, meditation, or simply a shower and a healthy breakfast, starting the day off right will make you more focused and energized.

Proven by me and many others: when you have a positive morning, your to-do list doesn’t feel as daunting!

29. Build good habits

Good habits are the building blocks of productivity. By creating positive routines and sticking to them, you’ll find it easier to get things done and make progress toward your goals.

Some examples of good habits for productivity might be:

• Reviewing your goals every month to stay on track
• Practicing self-care to release stress and be more productive
• Meditating daily to clear the mental clutter and get clarity on your priorities

30. Reward yourself for progress

Rewarding yourself for every bit of noticeable progress is crucial to stay motivated and avoid burnout. Whether it’s a small treat or a day off, make sure to celebrate your accomplishments and use that positive energy to keep moving forward.

31. Don’t let procrastination ruin your life

Procrastination can occur in a ton of different shapes and forms! It’s not always as obvious as watching Netflix all day.

Personally, I’m guilty of procrastinating by doing non-essential work and keeping myself busy. But at the end of the day, if your work doesn’t take you nearer to the destination you want to reach, it’s not worth much.

Every night before bed ask yourself: What did I do today to bring me closer to my dream life? If you don’t have the answer, do better tomorrow.

32. Always keep learning

Continuous learning is essential for personal and professional growth. Make it a point to learn something new every day, whether it’s a new skill, a new language, or a new perspective.

My go-to place for absorbing knowledge is Skillshare: I’ve been with them for years and watched dozens of interesting courses so far. They have classes on various digital skills, from photography and illustration to leadership and productivity. I honestly don’t know a better (or more affordable) place for creative people to learn new skills!

33. Find effective ways to rest and recharge

Remember that taking breaks and prioritizing self-care can help you be more productive in the long run. If you work without taking breaks, you are likely to experience burnout, which can lead to decreased productivity, poor health, and other negative consequences.

Make sure to make time for activities that help you recharge your batteries! This can include things like spending time outdoors, meditating, taking a relaxing bath, or engaging in a hobby that you enjoy.

You can even combine this with productivity tip #30 and plan a getaway weekend, or a relaxing day in spa, when you finish your project or a significant chunk of it.

It’s also important to disconnect from technology and social media during your downtime, as constant consumption of new information might make you feel drained and stressed. Do a regular digital detox (or social media one) to allow yourself to reconnect with your thoughts, find fresh ideas, and process the information you already absorbed.

34. Read life-changing books

Another source of insight is, of course, books, especially non-fiction ones. Choose books that can teach you valuable skills, broaden your perspectives, and inspire you to take action.

Reading can also help reduce stress and increase focus, which are key components of productivity. Whether it’s a book about time management, procrastination, personal growth, entrepreneurship, or something more specific to your skills, there is always something new to learn that can help you become more productive.

Make it a habit to read at least a few pages each day and take notes on the most important ideas. Over time, you will build a library of knowledge that will serve you well in your personal and professional life.

35. Exercise your brain

Your brain is like a muscle – the more you exercise it, the stronger it becomes. Incorporate brain-boosting activities like puzzles, games, and brain teasers into your routine to stay sharp and productive.

Next time, instead of pointless scrolling your social feed, try opening a fun brain exercising app and spend a couple of minutes strengthening your most important muscle!

36. Keep yourself healthy

Your health is an important foundation for productivity. Aim to eat well, exercise regularly and take care of yourself to ensure you have the energy and focus you need to get things done.

37. Aim for a balanced life

Balancing work and life is key to sustained productivity. Make sure to prioritize what’s important and find ways to make time for both work and play.

One effective tool you can use to understand what’s lacking in your life is drawing the life balance wheel. It allows you to assess the different areas of your life, such as career, relationships, health, and personal growth, and identify where you need to focus more attention.

Once you have identified your priorities, keep in mind that you need to allocate time for both work and leisure activities. This will help you stay motivated and energized, and ultimately lead to a happier and more fulfilling life.

Remember that it’s not about finding a perfect balance, but about making small changes that can have a big impact over time!

38. Make sure to sleep well

I can say a lot about the importance of good-quality sleeping habits, but I’m sure you already know it.

Getting enough sleep is critical for mental and physical health, as well as productivity. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night to stay alert and focused throughout the day.

You can use sleep trackers to help you figure out how much time your body needs in order to be in its best shape in the morning. For example, for me, it’s 7.5 hours. For someone 6 might be enough, while others might need 9 to function properly.

Understanding your biorhythms is crucial if you want to show up every day as your most productive self.

39. Reflect at the end of the day

Reflecting on your day can help you identify what worked well and what you could improve. Use this information to make adjustments and set yourself up for success tomorrow.

There are journals with prompts that can ease you into this process, but a blank journal or a note-taking app also works if you want to keep it simple.

Planning Tips

Effective planning is essential for achieving your goals and maximizing productivity. By setting SMART goals, planning in advance, and utilizing the right tools, you can stay organized and focused, resulting in greater goal success.

40. Find the right planner

Choosing the right planner can be a game changer for your productivity. Experiment with different formats and designs until you find the one that works best for you. Once you find it, use it consistently to plan out your days and track your progress.

Planners can be dated or undated, have daily pages or just weekly overviews, some even have a fair amount of prompts to reflect on. Test a few different ones that match your vibe and find the best one that gives you a clear picture of your future life and a breakdown of your long-term projects.

41. Set SMART goals

Setting SMART goals is a proven method to achieve what you want. Make sure your goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Let me give you an example:

Non-SMART Goal: “Increase sales.”

SMART Goal: “Increase sales by 10% in the next quarter by launching a targeted email campaign to our existing customers, creating a referral program, and attending two local networking events to generate new leads.”

By shaping your goals through SMART filter, you’ll have a clear direction of what you want to accomplish and can track your progress more effectively. This will help you avoid vague or unrealistic goals that can lead to frustration and burnout.

42. Review your goals regularly

Reviewing your goals regularly is a critical part of achieving them. It helps you stay on track and make necessary adjustments.

If you take a look at your New Year’s resolutions in July, you might realize that some of the things you don’t even want anymore, or that you’ve been keeping yourself busy with things that don’t contribute to your goal success.

To avoid that, schedule regular check-ins with yourself to review your progress and make changes whenever it makes sense. A monthly review is a good starting point.

43. Don’t have too many goals

Having too many goals is like being a one-person circus. You can juggle a few balls, but not too many before they all come crashing down. Focus on a few important goals at a time, and you’ll be more productive and less overwhelmed.

44. Make good use of your planner

To make good use of your planner, start by blocking out time for your most important tasks. Use it to plan your day, week, and month, and track your progress. Consider color-coding your tasks or using symbols to make your planner more visually appealing.

Don’t skip the sections dedicated to long-term vision and exercises like “current me vs future me” or creating a vision board. If your planner has it, it’s there for a reason. It makes you clearly understand the direction you are going so you can check in regularly and make sure you are still on the right track.

45. Plan for tomorrow

When you plan your day the night before, you end up going to bed with a smile on your face. You know you have something to look forward to, and you’ll wake up with purpose and energy.

Set aside a few minutes every night to plan your next day, and you’ll be surprised at how much you can accomplish before breakfast.

46. Have a prioritized list of daily goals

To maintain productivity in both your business and personal life, it is crucial to have a prioritized list of daily goals.

Begin by recognizing the top three most significant tasks you need to accomplish each day. Dedicate your focus and energy to completing these tasks before moving on to less important ones, as they have a greater impact on your success.

Also, circle out one task that is the most important – and prioritize it over anything else. Every morning before you start working, ask yourself: If I could only do one thing today, which one should I focus on to make me feel accomplished when the day is gone?

47. Keep your to-do list short

A long list can be overwhelming and result in procrastination. Limit your list to the most important tasks, and tackle them one at a time.

You can always have a bigger pool of tasks you can draw from when you finished everything from your focused to-do list. Or maybe pat yourself on the back and let yourself rest? You clearly deserve it.

48. Have a long-term vision

All the most successful people are visionaries. They don’t just stumble upon success: they plan and work hard to achieve their goals. In most cases, they know exactly where they want to be a year from now. Do you?

Having a long-term vision for your personal and professional life can help you stay motivated and focused on your goals. Setting yearly goals will help you stay on track and make progress toward the life you want to live.

Remember to review your progress regularly, break down the big goals into bite-sized tasks, and make adjustments when needed.

49. Use a habit tracker

If you are looking to boost your productivity and make positive changes in your life, a habit tracker can be a powerful tool to help you achieve your goals.

By tracking your progress and celebrating small wins, you’ll feel more motivated to continue your streak and build new habits that align with your dreams.

As an example, I don’t think I’d stick to my French learning resolution if it wasn’t for Duolingo’s streak system. I already passed the 300-day mark and aiming at 365 now! Even when I don’t feel like doing French after a long day of work, the dreadful idea of breaking that long streak I worked so much for makes me do it!

Using a habit tracker is a practical and rewarding way to cultivate good habits, break bad ones, and stay focused on your goals. Whether you are trying to establish a new fitness routine, improve your productivity, or simply lead a healthier lifestyle, a habit tracker can keep you accountable until you get there.

50. Know the biggest productivity factors

Knowing the biggest productivity factors is like having a secret weapon. Thanks to various studies and statistics, we have a ton of knowledge to better understand human behavior and leverage what we can to maximize personal productivity.

51. Take small steps

If you only remember one productivity tip from this list, let it be this one!

Taking small steps is a fantastic way to start working towards your goals. It may seem like progress is slow at first, but every tiny step you take will get you closer to achieving what you want.

Think of it like climbing a staircase. You don’t reach the top by jumping from the bottom to the top in one big leap. Instead, you take one step at a time until you reach the top. The same principle applies to achieving your goals. By taking small, consistent steps every day, you’ll become more confident in your skills and eventually reach your destination.

Don’t let the fear of not doing enough hold you back from starting. Remember, progress is progress, no matter how insignificant it may seem. Celebrate every step you take and keep moving forward!

Workspace Productivity Tips

To optimize your workspace for productivity, it’s important to create a well-organized and inspiring environment. This includes having an ergonomic desk setup, making use of productivity gadgets, incorporating scents to boost concentration, and decluttering regularly for deeper focus.

52. Organize your home office for productivity

To be productive, you need to have an organized home office that is free from distractions, feels professional and welcoming at the same time. Start by decluttering and organizing your workspace, creating a dedicated area for work, and setting up any necessary equipment.

53. Create a vision board

A vision board can be a great way to stay focused on your goals and inspire creativity. Create a board that includes your long-term goals and any inspirational quotes or images that motivate you.

There is no perfect way to make a vision board. Some like it messy and full of cut-outs from magazines overlapping each other. Others prefer to keep it digital, minimal, and aesthetic. Whatever is your vibe, put things on it that really light a fire under you!

54. Invest in a good desk and chair

Working at a good desk can make a big difference in your productivity. Look for a desk that is sturdy, comfortable, and fits your space and work style. And an ergonomic chair with good back support can prevent discomfort and strain, allowing you to focus on your work without distractions.

Consider adding a standing desk to your workspace as well, as alternating between sitting and standing throughout the day is proven to boost your energy levels and reduce fatigue, as well as increase productivity and creativity.

55. Use a desk timer

A desk timer is a good alternative to mobile apps for productivity if you want to stay away from your phone during work hours.

Using a simple desk timer helps you stay on task, avoid distractions, and see how fast you are working. Experiment with different intervals of work and breaks until you create a system that keeps you focused and productive throughout the day.

56. Keep your desk clean

Keeping your desk clean is one of the most important productivity tips for working from home. A cluttered and disorganized workspace can distract you and make it difficult to focus on your work.

Take a few minutes in-between tasks to tidy up your desk, and you’ll feel much more productive when nothing takes your attention away from your current project.

57. Have good lighting

Having good lighting is essential for productivity. As a typical software developer, I sometimes find myself working in the dark when the only source of light is my laptop – and this is far from the most productive setup.

A well-designed lamp can help reduce eye strain, enhance concentration, and boost your mood. You can also choose lamps that mimic natural light, which can help regulate your circadian rhythm and improve your sleep quality. Plus, having a stylish and functional lamp can make your workspace look more inviting and inspiring, making you feel more motivated and creative.

As a personal tip, I would recommend choosing a lamp with dimming functionality, especially if you tend to work late at night. It allows you to regulate the amount of light you need in the different phases of the day, which gives your workspace a more cozy feel.

58. Make sure your workplace smells right

Maybe it’s not the obvious productivity tip, but the sense of smell is equally important as the other four, and playing with it may actually have a big impact on your day-to-day productivity.

Certain scents, such as peppermint or citrus (my favorite), have been shown to increase alertness and concentration. Consider using a diffuser with essential oils or a scented candle to help you stay focused.

59. Take breaks when working

Taking a regular pause when working is important for maintaining a certain level of productivity and avoiding burnout. Consider using a neck massager or doing some simple stretches in-between tasks to help youself relax and take care of strained muscles.

60. Prepare for cold days

Planning some changes in your environment in anticipation of colder days allows you to stay productive during the winter months. Make sure you have warm clothing and blankets on hand to keep you comfortable while you work.

One thing that has been a life-saver for me is a foot warmer! I used to constantly get distracted when my feet got cold, and now it’s not an issue anymore.

61. Learn to be productive whenever

Learning to be productive whenever and wherever can help you make the most of your time.

Experiment with working at different times of the day, such as at night or early in the morning, to find what works best for you. But also learn several ways you can make yourself productive when you have to work at less-than-ideal times of the day.

62. Use the computer as a work tool, not an entertainment tool

Your computer can be a powerful productivity tool when used correctly. Explore productive things to do on the computer, such as organizing files, taking online courses, or using productivity apps to stay on track.

Mindset Tips For Productivity

While skills and techniques are important, mindset is often the key to unlocking your most productive self. By adopting a growth mindset, practicing positive self-talk, embracing failures as opportunities to learn, and overcoming perfectionism, you can cultivate a productive mindset that helps you stay motivated, focused, and resilient in the face of challenges.

63. Find out what you want

Understanding what you want from life is what drives your productivity.

When you are clear on your goals and priorities, you’ll be able to make better decisions about how to spend your time and energy. Take some time to reflect on what’s important to you and what you want to achieve.

You don’t have to figure it all out before you start doing anything. But at least have your own definition of success and a vision of what a happy life can look like for you.

64. Don’t be a perfectionist

I know firsthand how much being a perfectionist brings your productivity down.

During the last decade, I’ve channeled way too much time and energy to things and projects that didn’t deserve it or didn’t work out anyway. Looking back at all that perfectionism-for-nothing literally hurts.

Instead of striving for perfection, aim for progress. Focus on making small improvements every day, and don’t get bogged down by little mistakes or setbacks. Done is always better than perfect. You can come back and perfect it later, if absolutely necessary.

65. Use positive affirmations

As a certified happiness coach, I can tell you that using positive affirmations is an extremely powerful tool to shift your mindset and stay motivated! More and more studies are showing the positive effects of self-talk on your productivity, self-esteem, and general contentment in life.

Start your day with a positive mantra, such as “I am capable of achieving my goals” or even “I am amazing and successful”. Repeat this affirmation during the day to pump yourself up and stay focused.

66. Beware of your BUTs

Pay attention to when you use “but” in relation to your goals and dreams.

• I would love to do this, but…
• I’ve considered starting this project, but…
• I’ve always dreamed of becoming this, but…
• I was going to do this today, but…

Whatever comes after but, recognize it as your go-to excuse and think about the ways you can deal with it. It is likely the thing that stops you from being your most productive, successful, happy self. And the reason your dreams stay dreams forever.

67. Don’t rely on willpower

Don’t rely solely on willpower to stay productive, especially when you are tired. Willpower is known to be a limited resource, therefore completely unreliable. You want to be in charge of your productivity, so don’t give up your power just because you are feeling drained.

Instead, try to create systems and habits that support your productivity, and make it easier for you to get things done even when your willpower is low.

68. Follow high achievers for inspiration

Whatever social media is your biggest time waster, make sure to follow a couple of people who live the life you want for yourself. Study their content, habits, and mindset and use it as guidance for your own success.

Additionally, you can watch empowering TED talks or read books by successful entrepreneurs to learn from their experiences and gain new insights.

69. Adopt a growth mindset

Having a growth mindset means believing that your abilities and intelligence can be developed through hard work, dedication, and learning from mistakes.

In contrast, having a fixed mindset means believing that your abilities and intelligence are set in stone and cannot be changed.

Adopting a growth mindset can be incredibly beneficial for your personal and professional development because it allows you to embrace challenges, learn from failures, and persist in the face of obstacles. With a growth mindset, there is nothing you can’t achieve, because you don’t stop until you do!

70. Welcome failure

Fear of failure is one of the biggest reasons for procrastination and holding back.

Learn to see failure as an opportunity to learn and grow, and welcome it with open arms. There is a famous quote that says: “The only people who never fail are those who never try.”

Keep pushing yourself out of your comfort zone and trying new things, as this is the only way to learn valuable lessons that eventually make your dreams come true.

71. Set non-negotiable rules

Non-negotiable rules are self-imposed guidelines or boundaries that you set for yourself and never compromise on. These rules help you stay focused on your goals, increase productivity, and build healthy habits.

For example, I have a non-negotiable rule to exercise in the morning. It doesn’t mean that I do a full hour of training every day but it means I’ve been consistent long enough and it’s a semi-automatic habit now. Sometimes it’s a 20-minute pilates sequence. And on the worst days, I just do a 10-minute yoga in bed (yeah, that’s a thing!). Sometimes I have rest days, but they are intentionally planned for restoration, not just random slacking because I don’t feel like it in the morning.

Examples of other non-negotiable rules may be:

• No work on Sundays.
• Don’t spend more than 1 hour on social media in a day.
• Write a book for 20 minutes every day.
• No snacks after 7 pm.

By setting non-negotiable rules, you eliminate decision fatigue and create a routine that helps you stay on track and be more productive. They help you prioritize what’s important, eliminate everything that doesn’t serve your goals, and ensure that you stick to it, even when things get tough.

72. Don’t overthink it

Overthinking can lead to analysis paralysis, causing you to waste time and energy without making any progress. Remember that it’s okay to make mistakes and that failure is a natural part of the learning process.

There are even studies to show that 90% of our worries never happen. So don’t let your thoughts run wild and take control of your time!

73. Grow your self-esteem

Improving your self-confidence is key to getting anywhere in life.

A person with low self-esteem has a lot of limiting beliefs that stand in the way of achieving success. Things like perfectionism, imposter syndrome, procrastination, and social anxiety all come from thinking you aren’t good enough.

From self-affirmation to taking a crash course on confidence, find a way to ensure you believe in the actual possibility of your success. Celebrate your wins along the way, no matter how small, and don’t be too hard on yourself for mistakes or setbacks.

74. Prevent burnout

Burnout is absolutely miserable and can be incredibly difficult to overcome. Recovery can take weeks or even months of being in a slump and doing nothing, taking you several steps back from your goals. At the end, it’s never worth it.

To avoid burnout while still remaining productive, it’s important to find a balance between work and rest. This may include setting realistic goals, prioritizing tasks, taking regular breaks, and finding ways to relax and unwind outside of work. It’s also important to recognize when you are feeling overwhelmed or stressed and take steps to address it before it turns into burnout.

In other words, don’t push yourself too hard.

Remember, productivity doesn’t always mean working longer hours or sacrificing your well-being. It’s about finding a balance that works for you and allows you to be your best self.

75. Know your why

Your “why” is the fuel that drives you towards your goals and gives you a sense of purpose and fulfillment. When you know your “why”, you are more likely to make choices that align with your values and bring you joy and satisfaction.

For each goal and resolution you set for yourself, ask yourself why you want it. If the answer is “it’s nice to have” or “someone else has it/wants me to have it”, it’s not good enough.

A good “why” can often be the source of motivation when all other sources are depleted. Make sure you know your “why”, write it down, and re-read it when you are feeling uninspired.

Productive Workflow Tips

Productive workflow tips can help you streamline your processes, speed up tasks, and achieve better results. By avoiding multitasking, utilizing AI tools and keyboard shortcuts, and prioritizing tasks based on their importance, you can optimize your workflow for maximum productivity.

76. Simplify your processes

Simplifying your workflow is all about working smarter, not harder!

By streamlining your processes and tasks, you can boost your efficiency, reduce stress, and unlock your creative potential.

Think about breaking down complex projects into bite-sized steps, automating tedious tasks, and setting up routines that help you stay on track. Sounds better than drowning in a sea of emails and never-ending to-do lists, right?

Simplifying your processes makes your work more enjoyable, productive, and fulfilling.

77. Prioritize everything

Prioritizing in life involves identifying the things that are most important to you and allocating your time and resources accordingly.

One way to prioritize your life is to use a worksheet or template that helps you rank your priorities based on their level of importance. This can be a helpful tool for visualizing your priorities and making informed decisions about where to focus your efforts.

Next step would be to set specific goals for each priority area and break those goals down into actionable steps.

By regularly assessing your priorities, you can ensure that you are on track with your big goals and adjust your workflow according to your fresh perspective and circumstances in life.

78. Eat that frog

The concept of “eating that frog” originates from a book with the same title by Brian Tracy. It suggests tackling the most challenging task first thing in the morning when you have the most energy and focus.

This helps you avoid procrastination and postponing the task until there is no time left to do it.

By completing your hardest task first, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment and momentum that carries over to the rest of your workday and gives you the motivation to finish the rest of your to-do list.

79. Avoid multitasking

Multitasking used to be an advantage, but it’s proven now to actually reduce your productivity by splitting your focus and slowing down your overall progress.

With multitasking, you can never go deep enough into a flow state, which means you never touch the full power of your potential and only do surface-level thinking.

Instead, focus on one task at a time and give it your full attention until it’s completed. This allows you to work more efficiently and produce better-quality results.

The only way I personally do multitasking is by cleaning my apartment (robot vacuum) and washing the dishes (dishwasher) while writing this post. You can’t possibly do better than this.

80. Learn to type faster

Since typing is involved in everything you do online, learning to type faster can save you a lot of time in the long run. There are plenty of apps that can help you significantly improve this skill.

Practice typing regularly to improve your speed and accuracy. Alternatively, incorporate voice recognition software for taking notes faster.

81. Use AI tools to speed up your work

AI tools like chatbots, virtual assistants, and workflow automations can be a tremendous help in saving your time and increasing your productivity. In 2024, the amount of things Artificial Intelligence can do is mind-blowing, with more and more amazing tools popping up every month.

By using AI to handle mundane tasks like data entry or scheduling, you can free up more time to focus on the important work that only you can do. So why not give it a try and see how it can simplify your workload?

82. Make decisions quickly

Indecision can waste a fair amount of your time and lead to missed opportunities.

Learn to make decisions quickly by setting clear criteria for your choices, gathering all the necessary information, and trusting your instincts. Avoid overthinking or second-guessing yourself, unless it’s a life-changing decision that requires a thorough evaluation.

83. Learn keyboard shortcuts

Keyboard shortcuts can save you a lot of time by reducing the number of clicks and keystrokes required to complete a task. Learn the most commonly used keyboard shortcuts for your favorite applications and make them a habit.

If you use a mouse and shift between mouse and keyboard a lot, look up and memorize some keyboard shortcuts that can eventually replace the mouse completely. It might feel like mere milliseconds of difference, but trust me: it adds up to hours over time.

84. Learn to read faster and remember more

Improving your reading speed and comprehension can help you process information more quickly and efficiently. Try using speed reading techniques like skimming and scanning, and use memory techniques like association and visualization to help you remember important pieces.

Highlighting and taking notes when reading also proved to be very effective for information retention.

85. Do a regular brain dump

A brain dump is a simple exercise where you write down all your thoughts and ideas on paper without evaluating anything.

It’s like brainstorming with yourself.

Doing this can clear your mind and make space for more focused thinking. Suddenly you don’t have to worry about remembering everything and can dedicate that brain power to more important things.

Try doing a brain dump whenever you feel overwhelmed. If there are time-sensitive things in there, add them to your calendar or a project management tool so it remembers for you.

86. Have consistent routines

Consistent routines help you form good habits and create a sense of structure and stability in your workday. Develop a morning routine, a work routine, and an evening routine that work for you, and stick to them as much as possible.

It also helps when you have consistent routines for different processes in your business. Having a checklist for repetitive workflows takes the load off your brain and keeps decision-making to an essential minimum.

87. Don’t have zero days

A zero day is a day when you didn’t do anything productive towards your goals.

To avoid this, try to prioritize tasks that “move the needle”, and make sure to do at least one small step in the right direction every single day. Can you even imagine where 365 steps toward your goals can get you a year from now?

Tips To Avoid Distractions

Distractions can hinder productivity. Avoiding them through productivity tools, social feed blockers, and setting boundaries will help you stay focused and get things done much faster.

88. Block unimportant websites and apps

Social media and other non-work-related websites and apps can be a significant distraction during work hours. Use the website and app blockers to limit access to these sites when you need to focus.

Social networks are designed to grab and keep your attention. Ever noticed how you opened an Instagram app to check DMs and found yourself scrolling through random reels 20 minutes later, not even knowing what the initial intention was? That’s what they do.

I used to waste lots of time like this until I installed an extension to block Youtube and Facebook feeds. Now I can directly go to the thing I need without getting distracted by random catchy stuff.

89. Know the most common time wasters

Identify the biggest time wasters in your life and work to reduce their effects. Examples may include social media, meetings, or unnecessary emails.

Once you know your time wasters, you can gradually eliminate them by setting boundaries or changing your habits.

90. Get rid of unhealthy habits

Unhealthy habits like smoking, mindlessly snacking, or constantly checking your inbox can also be a huge distraction in the workplace. These habits can impact your focus and productivity, so it’s important to work on getting rid of them.

In addition, some unhealthy habits can negatively affect your physical and mental health, which can lead to even bigger distractions and setbacks.

Replace unhealthy habits with healthy ones, such as taking short breaks to stretch or exercise, snacking on healthy foods, and setting designated times to check your inbox.

91. Use DND mode

Use the “Do Not Disturb” mode on your phone, email, or other messaging apps to reduce interruptions during your workday. This allows you to focus on your work without being distracted by notifications or messages.

Additionally, I have a DND sign on my home office door. I only use it for my deep focus time when I’m in the flow state and don’t want to be distracted. Works like a charm! Make sure to teach all your loved ones to pay attention to the sign and respect your boundaries.

92. Beware of shiny object syndrome

Shiny object syndrome is the tendency to be easily distracted by new and exciting ideas or opportunities. It’s something most new business owners (myself included) are guilty of.

While it’s important to stay open and flexible, it’s vital to stay focused on your current goals. Don’t give up too soon if you don’t see immediate results! Success takes time.

Before pursuing a new opportunity, make sure it aligns with your goals and priorities and doesn’t take away the time or creative energy from your existing projects.

93. Remember that busy doesn’t mean productive

Many people often find themselves juggling multiple tasks and responsibilities, but despite their busy schedules, they may feel like they are not making any significant progress toward their goals.

Understand that being busy all the time doesn’t necessarily mean you are moving forward.

Prioritize your tasks and focus on the ones that are most important and urgent. Avoid getting bogged down by small tasks or distractions that don’t contribute to your overall productivity. Value your time.

94. Leave your phone in another room

One of the best and simplest tactics to avoid distractions that works for me is leaving my phone in another room during my productive hours.

Alternatively, you can just turn it off but it’s easier when there is no temptation at all. Out of sight – out of mind.

People, apps, and social media are all competing for your attention every second. Don’t give them a chance to distract you from your work by constant beeping, chiming, and flashing.

95. Don’t say yes too much

Setting boundaries and saying no can is crucial for managing distractions and staying focused on your work. Don’t feel obligated to say yes to every request or invitation that comes your way. Don’t feel guilty that you aren’t always available. Always prioritize your commitments and learn to say no when necessary.

You can either be a people pleaser or a successful goal slayer, not both!

96. Understand your procrastination

Procrastination can be a major barrier to productivity, but there are strategies to overcome it.

Identify the root causes of your procrastination and develop a plan to address them, whether it’s breaking tasks into smaller parts, increasing your self-worth, or working with an accountability partner.

97. Manage distractions

Distractions can come in many forms, from social media to noisy housemates or coworkers. To manage interruptions effectively, identify the most common distractions in your workplace and develop strategies to overcome them.

For example, if noise is a distraction, consider using noise-canceling headphones or moving to a quieter area.

98. Save time on chores

Chores like grocery shopping or cleaning can take up valuable time and energy during your workday. To save time on these tasks, consider outsourcing them or batching them together. For example, you could do all your grocery shopping for the week in one trip instead of making multiple trips.

And don’t underestimate technology! My robot vacuum and dishwasher alone save me hours per week which I channel into my projects or rest.

99. Forget mindless scrolling

Mindless scrolling on social media or other websites can be a significant distraction from your goals. If you can’t handle it yourself, try using social feed blockers to limit your time on social media and avoid getting sidetracked by non-work-related content.

100. Stop learning and start implementing

While it’s important to continue learning and growing as a person, it’s also important to implement what you’ve learned.

At some point, you have to stop constantly seeking out new information and focus on putting your existing knowledge into action. It’s important to recognize when learning becomes a distraction in itself.

There is always more to learn, but if you don’t implement anything, all that learning is a waste of time.

Make sure to choose a couple of productivity tips from this list and start using them for your own workflow today!

What is the #1 best productivity tip in 2024?

Take action. Don’t let procrastination and overthinking hold you back from getting things done! No matter how small your steps are, moving forward helps you gain momentum and make meaningful progress toward your goals. Remember, every step counts and every effort adds up, so keep pushing forward and you’ll achieve success in no time!

Final thoughts for your most productive year yet

This concludes my ultimate list of 100 productivity tips for 2024.

Achieving productivity requires effort, discipline, and the willingness to continuously improve yourself.

By implementing the productivity tips mentioned above, related to time management, planning, mindset, and workflow optimization, you can create a more productive lifestyle that supports your personal and professional goals.

Remember, productivity has nothing to do with perfection, and everything to do with progress. Stay focused, find ways to motivate yourself with no excuses, and you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve in 2024 and beyond!