Master Productivity by Doing Nothing

How to focus, meet deadlines, and be less stressed.

Photo courtesy of Nathan Dumlao on Unsplash

“Doing nothing often leads to the very best of something.” -Winnie The Pooh

Raise your hand if you feel guilty while you’re not getting stuff done? Okay, okay, I can’t see you but mentally I know you’re right there with me.

I’ve noticed a trend of people over-working themselves to the point of burnout. Even when I sit and enjoy my lunch, I’m thinking about how I’m not getting the things done.

However, this time is important. We all need time to recharge. I’ve noticed that when I don’t allow myself to breathe and take necessary breaks I don’t actually spend quality time finishing my tasks.

The best way to focus, meet deadlines, and be less stressed is to develop structure. Once you have parameters for yourself you can work within them. Without parameters, my mind becomes chaotic. Below is a daily structure that I’m currently using to accomplish my daily tasks and be more creative.

1. Take care of your physiological needs FIRST. — wake up, make your bed, shower, do a morning practice like yoga or meditation, get dressed in your work clothes (even if you work from home), and feed yourself.
2. Break up your work day into manageable portions. — Focus for a solid 45 min and then treat yourself to a 5–10 min break.
3. Take intentional breaks — write, read, meditate, call a friend or family member, or sit and drink your favorite beverage.
4. Makes lists — Prioritize the things that need to be done first and then schedule your day out from there. Lists are also great because you get to check items off as you go.
5. Find Accountability — Maybe it’s a friend who can challenge themselves in this with you, maybe it’s phone reminders. Support helps. Always.
6. Celebrate your Successes — What good is getting something done if you don’t take time to be proud of yourself? Invite a friend out for a drink, Host a gathering for the completion of bigger projects, buy that thing you’ve been refraining from(don’t go too crazy, though! or do…you’ve earned it.)
7. BE CONSISTENT — Keep repeating the structure that works for you because practice makes perfect. Good habits don’t form over night and becoming less stressed is a lifestyle change.

I hope this article has helped you on your path to becoming less stressed and more productive and focused. If you liked this and want to read more about self improvement, try reading this article.

I’m McKenzie Hanson, a photographer and stop motion animator based in Chicago, IL. I juggle a camera in my hand and a toddler on my hip. Follow me on social @itskenziejean and check out my website www.mckenziehanson.com.