When you hear the word “productivity,” do you picture someone working really hard at a desk, completing tasks and logging hours?  This is certainly a form of productivity, but there are so many misconceptions about the limits of being productive.  You’d be surprised how many other ways you can improve productivity and efficiency throughout your day!

1. Sing in the shower.  As we all know, singing puts us in a better mood.  By singing some tunes in the shower, you improve your mood which allows you to enthusiastically tackle your day.
2. Own a dog.  The busier you are, the more likely you are to use better time management.  If you have to take care of a dog – take it out for a walk, shower and feed it – you will make sure to complete all of your own tasks in time so you do not neglect Bowser.
3. Stop drinking caffeine.  Everyone thinks drinking a morning cup o’ joe will help wake them up and kick start their day.  Living in Seattle, we understand the caffeine kick.  But actually, you become completely dependent on caffeine so much so that it is more a mentality.  You can actually accomplish all of your to-do’s without stopping by the café first!  This will save you time and money, as well.
4. Always keep your phone within eyesight.  By laying your phone next to you while you work – or nearby while you drive, sleep and eat – you will be notified immediately of every new development or question from others.  If you are working on a project and your colleague emails you a change in the plans, you will immediately alter your work and thus, not have to go back and undo work.  Similarly, if you are driving to pick the kids up from practice and see your spouse’s text immediately saying soccer practice was cancelled, you won’t waste time going to the field!
5. Spend at least 45 minutes each day reading blogs.  Learning from other interesting blogs – whether they be food recipes, organization tips, DIY crafts, or business strategies – will help keep you inspired and motivated.  Seeing others produce great work inspires you to always work hard and push yourself more.