6 Productivity Tips.

People often ask me how I can be so productive. I usually remind them I am child free so that gives me WAY more time than most.

But it got me to thinking about what habits I have adopted to make me more productive so I am sharing them here.

Most of this applies to writing and product creation. Feel free to add your own

1. Cancel your television service.
I have been without TV for a long time. In fact I am on a media diet lately. I still watch shows (downloaded to Apple TV) but I don't let my brain consume TV just to consume. Tim Ferris pointed this out in the 4 hr work week and it made sense to me. It gives you more things to talk about at parties when you don't know the news.

2. When working on a project DISCONNECT the internet.
I shut off all non work apps and disconnect the internet. This allows me 100% focus when writing or creating. No email or IM distractions, no need to check my forum threads etc.

3. Sugar helps the idea process
If you are stuck on a problem or having a creative block have a piece of chocolate or some candy and walk away from your computer. The sugar helps your mind and getting away from the computer helps ideas flow.

4. Meditate
Crazy right? I know it sounds nuts and sometimes I fight the relaxation but it's ALWAYS worth the time. We rarely give ourselves time to rest other than sleep and this can be damaging to our minds and souls.

5. Hire a full time assistant
I know not everyone can afford this luxury but it really helps you to make sure you keep that person busy. If your business can afford an employee get one. 1. It's good for the economy. 2. By keeping this person busy 40 hrs a week your business will grow exponentially faster.

6. Build a schedule of your day in outlook/ical and stick to it.
You should schedule your time spent on forums, supporting customers and creating products. This schedule should be logical to you but more importantly you should stick to it like glue. Let those reminders signal you to stop and move on.