7 habits that helped my daily productivity

As an entrepreneur who works from home, I sometimes struggled with motivation and productivity. After doing some research and spending some time trying different strategies, I’ve put together a list of habits that really help me with my productivity.

And if they help me, hopefully they’ll help you too!

Check them out below.

A consistent morning routine can set a positive tone for the day and help you mentally prepare for the challenges ahead. Develop a ritual that suits your preferences, such as reading, yoga or enjoying a healthy breakfast. An established morning routine can lead to increased productivity and a more balanced lifestyle. For inspiration and some additional ideas, check out the great book titled Tiny Habits by BJ Fogg.

2. Drink plenty of water

Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining optimal brain function and overall health. As an entrepreneur, drinking plenty of water can help improve concentration, reduce fatigue and promote clear thinking. Get in the habit of carrying a reusable water bottle and set reminders to take sips regularly throughout the day. I bought a Berkey water filter that sits on my kitchen counter, and it’s now the first thing I go to when I wake up in the morning.

3. Use an app like Notion or ClickUp for daily tasks

Managing your daily tasks effectively is essential to maintaining productivity. Apps like Notion and ClickUp provide easy-to-use platforms to organize your tasks, set deadlines, and track progress. By using these tools, you can streamline your workflow and ensure nothing slips through the cracks. I like to add sections for different staff members so that we can all see the tasks or projects at hand at any time.

“Productivity is the purposeful, strategic investment of your time, talent, intelligence, energy, resources and opportunities in a way calculated to move you measurably closer to meaningful goals.” – Dan S. Kennedy

4. Exercise

Regular exercise has been proven to increase energy levels, improve cognitive function and improve overall well-being. Include physical activity in your daily routine, such as jogging in the morning or a session at the gym. Exercise can help you stay focused, manage stress, and maintain a healthy work-life balance. For me, I love surfing, which is the perfect mix of exercise, mindfulness and connecting with nature. I try to go first thing in the morning, and while that’s not always possible, there might not be any waves or the wind or tide might not be right. If this is the case, a bike ride, treadmill, or even a yoga session really sets me up for the day ahead.

5. Get into nature

Spending time in nature has numerous mental health benefits, including reduced stress, improved mood and increased creativity. Take breaks to get outside, take a walk in a park, or even work in a green space if possible. By connecting with nature you can gain new energy and inspiration for your entrepreneurial activities. It’s so easy to do, but many of us (myself included) even forget to go outside some days! Luckily I live near a path that winds along the coastline and is completely undeveloped. Within 5 minutes I can be out and about, walking and just listening to the sound of the ocean and the chirping of birds.

6. Use a standing desk

A standing desk can be a game-changer for your productivity and overall health. Standing while working can improve posture, reduce the risk of obesity and heart disease, and increase alertness. Alternating between sitting and standing throughout the day can help you maintain your energy levels and stay engaged in your work. There are now desks available that you can position for standing or sitting, and I would highly recommend checking these out. IKEA even has one in stock last time I checked!

Bonus hack! Buy an under-desk treadmill to really burn those calories

7. Delegate

Delegating tasks to your team members is critical to managing your workload and staying focused on high-priority tasks. Learn to trust your team’s capabilities and empower them to take on responsibilities. Effective delegation can help you maintain productivity, prevent burnout, and create a more efficient work environment.

In short, implementing these seven strategies can significantly improve your productivity as an entrepreneur. Even if just a few of these ideas work for you and you create a more efficient and balanced work environment, I’d consider that a win. Try to embrace these habits to optimize your workflow and promote personal and professional growth, which will ultimately pave the way for success in your entrepreneurial journey.