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7 Realistic Productivity Tips That Keep Me Sane(ish)
Am I really qualified to share realistic productivity tips? Hmm… Let’s just say my daily routine wouldn’t exactly make it onto a productivity podcast. There’s no cold plunge. No journaling by candlelight. No perfect app that tracks my every move. I do what works for me… and most of it would probably raise some eyebrows. But that’s the point. It works, and that’s what makes it realistic. My days are full, my work gets done, I’m around when my kids need me, and I stay (mostly) sane in the process. And if some of that comes down to strange little habits I’ve collected over time? So be it. Here’s a…
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5 Steps to Doing a Goal Audit Without an Existential Crisis
Over the weekend, I found a crumpled note at the back of my desk drawer that said: “Revamp workout routine!” No date, no context… just vibes. And honestly? It could’ve been from last week… or a year ago. That little discovery made me cringe. Then, realize it might be time for a goal audit. It reminded me how easy it is to set goals (or even just loosely think about them), but never really circle back to ask if they’re working… or if we even still want them on our list. So I paused. I pulled out all the goals I’d set earlier this year and asked: What’s still relevant?…
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3 Easy SMART Goal Hacks to Make Goals Actually Stick
I’ve set hundreds of SMART goals in my life. I’ve even set a bunch of DUMB goals, dozens of backward goals, a handful of FAST goals, and even a few BHAGs. Heck, I’ve even written dozens of articles (and an ebook!) all about goal setting. So, I guess you can say I’ve done a lot of research into what makes a goal one that is actually achievable. But don’t worry, this isn’t yet another how-to guide for setting goals. This is a realistic look at why some goals stick, and others don’t… even if they follow all the “right” rules. Really Quick Review: What’s a SMART Goal? I know. I…
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Mastering Productive Downtime: A Balanced Approach to Recharge
We’ve all experienced those moments when we hit a wall and just need to step back. For me, that often means zoning out in front of the latest reality TV show—a quick escape from the hustle. But then, the guilt creeps in because there’s still so much to do. What if I told you that downtime can actually be as productive as your busiest work hours? “Productive downtime” isn’t an oxymoron—it’s a key to sustainable success. Downtime is often seen as unproductive, but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, incorporating intentional breaks into your routine can enhance your productivity and overall well-being. Think of it as hitting the refresh…
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The 21 Best Apps for Productivity and Work/Life Balance
We all know the struggle of juggling multiple tasks, deadlines, and responsibilities while trying to stay on top of our game. Over the years, I’ve tried countless tools and apps to streamline my workflow and boost my productivity. Today, I’m excited to share some of my favorites that have truly made a difference in my daily routine. These are, in my opinion, some of the best apps for productivity and work/life balance. Enjoy! Task and Project Management Apps 1. Trello If you’re anything like me, keeping track of tasks and projects can sometimes feel overwhelming. That’s where Trello comes in. This intuitive project management tool uses boards, lists, and cards…
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Habit Hacking: How to Use Habit Formation Theory to Create Lasting Change
Years ago, when my children were very young and I was splitting my time between raising them and running my business, I made a purposeful decision to wake up every day at 3:00 am. I had always been an early riser, but even for me, this was an adjustment! What drove me to make such a drastic change? In these wee hours of the morning, the house was the quietest, and distractions were minimized. I was able to be productive and complete some quick tasks. I prepared for the day ahead and made sure I had my priorities identified (because we all know that not everything will always get done!).…
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Turning Chaos Into Order with Ted Lasso’s Bird by Bird Approach
Do you ever feel like you’re drowning in tasks, deadlines, and expectations? That the mountain of “to-dos” feels too steep to climb without the risk of tumbling back down? I’ve been there, staring at my screen, paralyzed by the sheer volume of work ahead. But then I remember a simple, yet profound strategy that brings a little bit of clarity to chaos: the Bird by Bird approach. This method, first described by Anne Lamott in her book on writing and life, and then immortalized by the lovably optimistic Ted Lasso, is my go-to for navigating overwhelming situations. So, what’s the story behind Bird by Bird? Anne Lamott recounts a moment…
