GSD*
(*get shit done)
The name of the game for 2023 appears to be productivity, and glitterbombs: I’m already exhausted. It’s not yet burnout, because when I set aside time to rest I feel recharged. But it’s February, ffs. What are we racing towards?
Last month, so many of my client conversations centered around this topic: how can I be more productive? What are some tips you’ve seen that help boost productivity? What are some hacks that work?
Now, I know and you know that when you ask me for my opinion, you’re really looking for validation, affirmation, and support. And you know that I’m not going to tell you what to do. After all, that’s not good coaching. Instead we begin with these questions:
When I say the word productivity, what do you HEAR?
Do you hear a to-do list, a bullet journal page, a stack of post-it notes?
Do you hear accomplishment, because you’re working on things that align with your values?
Do you hear your imposter inner voice pushing play on the But What If mixtape to criticize and stymy you for not doing enough?
2. When you think about productivity, how do you FEEL?
Do you feel your chest tighten and a mild headache coming on?
Do you feel the competitive rush of you-against-the-clock?
Do you feel like you wanna do anything other than what’s in your inbox?
Like so many things, the way that you think about productivity and the way that you experience productivity is unique to you. Hacks and tips won’t work unless you understand where you’re impacted, where you’re bogged down, where you’re motivated… where YOU are ready to commit to making a change for yourself.
Then, get really comfortable with what’s good enough. You can’t be everywhere and you can’t do everything. Discover what’s enough – what’s sustainably, honestly enough– and set that boundary and hold to it.
And on the off-chance you really ARE looking for my opinion, here’s what I have for you.
Procrastinate - if you’re not ready to start, do something else. Occasionally, the pressure of “I have no more time left so I have to do this” is the fire you need to get something done. James can always pinpoint when I’m fretting about a task when I do ALL THE LAUNDRY from start to finish (which includes putting it away).
Organize your space - You don’t have to have a tidy workspace to get things done. But you do need to have a workspace that’s conducive to working. Got your favorite mug? Your notebook and pen? Your laptop charger? A safe space to work? What will you actually need to have around you in order to work efficiently? Reward future you with prepping your space.
Eliminate distractions - Seriously, turn off the notifications, the dings and bings, close the blinds, put your dogs in a crate, put on noise-canceling headphones, return that phone call… whatever you need to do in order to be able to focus on what’s ahead of you instead of getting sidetracked by the world outside.
Start with your to-dos - If you follow me on IG, you’ve seen pictures of my planner when my to-do list is out of control. I have to get very real with myself about what I have the capacity and capability to do, and when. My ambition may be exponential, but my time and my energy are limited, savvy? In those moments when you’re ready to stare down your to-do, ask yourself what must be done today and what’s driving that timeline? What has the most value or priority to you? What’s on your list that you didn’t want to agree to in the first place, and how can you offload it? Pick one part of one thing, and start there.
Set a timer - Give yourself a time limit. 25 minutes. 2 hours. Whatever feels right and fits how you best work. I know so many people who swear by the pomodoro technique; I’m not one of them. Who cares? Give yourself an end-point; it’s then your choice whether you stop working or keep going.
Build a soundtrack - This one’s deeply personal. I used to play music constantly when I was working, mostly so I could ignore it (a strange method of focusing, but it worked for me). Now I’m in a season of doing that less. But if you like to have something going in the background, there are a couple of different approaches. You can always go the classical music route (brain food, I’ve been told). You can put on your favorite jams that pump you up and keep you moving (shameless plug to drop your favorite GSD tunes to the Uproar Community playlist). You can listen to EDM or house or your favorite DJ’s set on youtube or the sound of whales migrating or nothing at all.
Fuel (snacks) - I’m big on snacks. Have something at the ready to fuel your tummy and your mind. And don’t forget to hydrate.
Wiggle - Get up and wiggle around. Maybe stick your head outside for some fresh air. Move around the room or around your block. Take a disco nap. Don’t get stuck in your workspace. You’ve already imprinted there enough.
Have a productivity hack you love? Drop a comment and let me know. I’m always down to test-drive something new.
And don’t forget: if you’re looking for support to be productive without punishing yourself… if you want an accountabilibuddy who’s in your corner but will call you out on your bullshit… Busy Bitch starts the first Friday of each month. I’m ready when you are.
