How to Stop Wasting Time and Get Stuff Done

Here are three simple things you can start doing today to stop wasting time and get things done:

1. Block Out Time for Your Work or Task

Create a schedule that blocks out time for you to get stuff done. This will do two things: It will give you a “deadline” to finish your tasks. It will also help to keep distractions away.

• That means if other people want to see you during your blocked out time, you are unavailable.
• It means that you don’t do anything else until after your blocked out time is over and your tasks have been completed.

2. Use a Weekly and Daily To-Do List

Each week, write down your major goals and things you need to do for the upcoming week. This sets the tone for your week.

• At the end of each night, write down your most important tasks for the following day.
• Make sure you check your tasks off at the end of each day. This gives you a feeling of accomplishment and keeps you accountable.
• Notice which tasks you haven’t completed. If it’s still something important, add it to tomorrow’s to-do list and get it done!

3. Use Negative Consequences to Motivate You

What are the negative consequences of not completing your tasks?

• If you catch yourself getting caught up in a distraction, spend a few minutes imagining what will happen if you choose the distraction over your work, tasks or to-do list.

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Experiment with these ideas and tweak them in ways that work for you to keep you motivated and effective. These are proven techniques for keeping you on track and getting stuff done. Life is just better when we’re doing what we need to do.