College is a case study in motivation, or the lack thereof. There are so many things that I want to do, but can’t seem to find the time or energy to actually accomplish. That being said, here are a few of my favorite productivity tips and tricks that I passed on in a Collegian article.
I’ve been interested in productivity and systems of getting things done for a while now. Check out Merlin Mann or Lifehacker for more great tips and tricks. However, I’ve yet to find one that fixes a broken motivation-generator. Let me know if you find it.
1. To-Do Lists
No matter how you keep track of everything that you want to get done, take the time every evening to write out three to five items that you want to accomplish the next day. These are the most important items that you can focus your time and attention on. Use the backside of that to-do list as your “anti to-dos.” Here you write down everything that you’ve done, including your original items. It’s satisfying to see your progress for the day, as well as to understand exactly what you intend to get done.
2. Dashes
Sometimes getting started on a task is the hardest part. One way to trick yourself into getting stuff done is to schedule a “dash.” Allocate ten minutes (or whatever short amount of time) to do as much intensive work on a project that you can. Ten minutes for emails, cleaning your room, writing that introduction, or what have you. Not only can you make a lot of progress in that dash, you’ll often find enough momentum to keep working beyond your time and getting even more done. I actually have a kitchen timer I use for this purpose.
3. Distractions
It’s difficult, but sometimes you just have to pull the plug on distractions. Retreat into an iPod or even just have the earbuds in so people won’t disturb you. Get off-campus if you have to. Find a quiet spot in the library. Disable your internet connection or go to a place that doesn’t have one so you can’t waste time on less-than-useful websites. Put measures in place to stay distraction free.
4. Constructive Procrastination
We all procrastinate on tasks. It’s a fact of life. But you can still put that time to good use. Try training yourself to procrastinate constructively. You may need to clean your room, but you can procrastinate by working on your math or on a paper. If you are procrastinating on one thing, use that time to accomplish work on another important project. Rather than needlessly procrastinating, use that very collegiate tendency to actually keep your productivity up to par.
Whatever systems and tricks you may choose to implement, the most important thing is that you find a system that works for you. If it helps you get work done, keep it. If it doesn’t, its time for a productivity inventory.