Need to Get More Done in Your Day?

Once upon a time I had plenty of time to update my blog 5 days a week, interview guests for my podcast twice a month, shoot an episode for my video podcast once a month, work a full-time job as a flight attendant, and live a [somewhat] regular life. Now-a-days, I can barely spend time with myself or afford to keep in touch with close friends.

My Secret Weapon to Being an Over-achiever

People asked me all the time, “Rod, where do you find the time to do all that you do?!” My reply would be, “you just gotta make time and go with what you’re passionate about.” However, I had a secret weapon that allowed me to eat, sleep, and work every waking moment on my business. . . I was single.

No kids, no girlfriend, no wife, no family to tend to . . . totally free to give all my time to being an entrepreneur.

Now?

Not so much.

A Snap Shot of the Real World

Presently, I’m in a relationship with someone pretty awesome, I’m flying more than I’ve ever been, and I still have a blog/business to run. When I’m with my girlfriend I don’t handle business, get online, or anything. I give her my undivided attention and at work I haven’t had much downtime. Lately, I feel as if I’ve been neglecting my entrepreneurial duties.

I asked God, “How do I find the right balance of time to spend in my relationship, with family, friends, and business?” I’m going to share exactly what He told me in Wednesday’s post, but for now, here are a few things that work for me and will help you maximize your time.

Become an Early Riser

I didn’t become an early bird until I became a flight attendant. When I’m off I’m usually up by 8 in the morning and earlier than that when I’m on duty. Working in the morning time is a great strategy to deploy since you don’t have as many distractions and you’ll have the rest of the day to relax. Just get ready for early bedtimes!

Become a Night Owl

Some people prefer the night-time to get things done. You’re more awake, alert, and active at night than early risers. The still, peace, and quiet of the night makes it ideal for people who stay up late and enjoy burning the midnight oil. The only down thing is, if you’re not used to staying up late, prepare to get really sleepy really fast!

Unplug from the Matrix

When I had the time I would spend hours on end online checking news, reading blogs, on Facebook, Twitter, etc. It’s still important that you engage wherever your market is online, however, it’s not important to do it at all times. Instead, choose strategic times to work offline and engage online. If you know you’ll be distracted at night with Twitter and Facebook then get off early and get some work done. Be smart and play your cards right.

Check Email Once a Day

I used to be email crazy, checking it more than a few times a day. And then things got really “convenient” with my Blackberry delivering emails to my phone. However, stopping to check it from the phone or even a computer only wastes time you could be using for something else. Instead, check all your mail at the beginning or end of your day. Sure, they’ll be waiting for you in a big stinking pile, but you’ll be focused and ready for it.

Note: Gmail is my webmail client of choice. I love the ability to “star” messages which saves important emails for later. You can do the same by setting up special filters and folders for important emails. Sort them in the morning time and respond to them at night.

Get ahead of Your Work Days

I would consider this to be a power tip so pay attention! I’ve started to write blog posts a day or two before my due dates [I used to write each on the day it was meant to be published]. Not only does this save time, but it frees time up for me to focus on other things. Beyond time, it’s a great feeling to know that you accomplished something off your to-do list a day early.

Work out of the Office

Many entrepreneurs and small business owners work out of a home office. Unfortunately, many times you can’t get any work done because of family needs, lack of quiet, or other unique home distractions. Pack up the office [aka, your laptop] and head to your nearest coffee shop, library, or bookstore. You’ll find the atmosphere more tranquil, peaceful, and enables you to concentrate more.

No matter where you are in your life you’ll have to find that perfect balance between business and other obligations. I hope I’ve shared a few useful tips to make it a little bit easier for you. Of course, I don’t have all the answers. How do you maximize your time and get more done when working on your business? Share your best tips, practices, and advice in the comments below.

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