Work smarter, not harder

David Hadley

If you’re a small business owner, time can be your best friend and also your worst enemy. Every single day needs to be productive and what you do first thing in the morning can influence your productivity for the rest of the day.

Try and hit the ground running every day of the week by starting things off right. Here some tips which may be of assistance.

  1. Start early

    While working long hours won’t necessarily mean increased productivity, however getting up earlier may give you a jump-start on the day. Research has shown that most people are more energised, focused and productive in the morning, making it a crucial time to make some ground.

    Getting started before everyone else will also mean it is a quieter time with less chance of interruptions.

  2. Exercise

    A pre-breakfast workout provides a great way to burn calories, reduce stress and get energised; it is also a smart way to counteract the effects of sitting for hours throughout the day.

    Exercising early will help you start your day with a better perspective, and healthier outlook. You should never get too busy to work-out, success stories ranging from Richard Branson to Oprah swear by its importance.

  3. Get up to speed

    A quick scan of your emails and major news headlines will let you know if there are any fires to put out or opportunities to take advantage of.

    While you don’t need to take action on anything the moment you wake up, it helps to know what the day has in store for you, and helps you plan where you need to be.

  4. Review goals for the day

    Having a few clear goals for your day will help you make the most of it, and reviewing them first thing in the morning will make scheduling your priorities simple.

    It will also be a lot easier to feel a sense of accomplishment about your work if you are conscious of what it is you are trying to do.

  5. Clear your mind

    Find a way to clear your mind that suits your style and commit to doing it every morning. Whether you spend 20 minutes enjoying a quiet cuppa with the sun rising or listening to some mellow music, relaxing your mind first thing in the morning will mean it is sharper throughout the day.

    Repeating this practice at the end of your day is also a good idea, as it will make it easier to unwind and enjoy a more restful sleep.

    It is important to find a morning routine that works well for you, and you’ll be amazed at the difference it makes. As we all know being productive in business is very important and one of the many steps to success.