July can be a tough month for productivity. We’ve just passed the middle of the year, a draining and exhausting year by the way, and it’s definitely taking a toll on our productivity. If you’re feeling the July blues, try out our specially curated list of productivity hacks for July 2020.
Productivity hack #1 Use the Pareto Principle
The Pareto Principle is commonly used for budgeting: spend 80% of your cash and save 20% of it. However, the Pareto Principle has plenty of applications in the world of productivity. How should you go about using it? Well, you can think about it as 20% of your actions leading to 80% of your outcomes. As such, you should prioritise the top 20% of tasks that can give you the most meaningful outcomes.
Productivity hack #2 Eat that Frog
The Eat that Frog technique is your biggest tool to fight procrastination. According to this rule, you should tackle your most dreaded task of the day first thing in the morning. In most cases, your most dreaded task is the most difficult task, which requires a tonne of time and effort. If you procrastinate such tasks, you’ll often lose steam throughout the day and lack the motivation to actually get things done. By tackling difficult projects first thing in the morning, you’ll be able to solve challenging issues with a clear mind. Plus, you’ll feel much better and less stressed throughout the rest of the day.
Productivity hack #3 Get some sleep
Whoever said “sleep is for the weak” couldn’t be more wrong. Getting enough sleep is an overlooked productivity hack that could change your life. Instead of being sleep deprived, your body will benefit from reduced stress, better memory, improved concentration and enhanced cognitive performance. Physical health is incredibly important for productivity, so remember to rest up.
Productivity hack #4 Tend to your mental health
Besides watching your physical health, tending to your mental health is a great way to boost your productivity. In this high-stressed, fast-paced world that we live in, it’s now more important than ever to take care of your mental wellbeing. Spend time indulging in things that make you happy — whether it’s a hobby, TV show or spending time with friends. Remember to take ample breaks and try integrating meditation into your life as well. There are so many ways to take care of your emotional health, you just need to take the time to find a method that works best for you.
Productivity hack #5 Use a productivity tool
We all need a little nudge in the right direction, which is where productivity tools come in handy. Use a note-taking app, keep a journal or try an effective timer to boost your productivity. A tool we love is the Timeqube, an unobtrusive mindfulness tool that helps you track the change in time through the passing of colors. It’s a simple, seamless mindfulness tool that goes miles in boosting your productivity. In fact, use a Timeqube with any time management technique you like for added benefits. Plus, it’s a cute addition to your home office to give you a pop of color throughout your day.
