The Four Pillars of Productivity: Maximise Your Potential
Struggling to get through that never-ending to-do list? Can’t stay focussed even when that deadline is approaching? It’s easy to get distracted from even the most pressing tasks in this non-stop modern day we live in. But there are steps that can be taken to get back to peak productivity.
For the last five years, performance coach and founder of the UK’s number 1 peak performance podcast Take FLIGHT, Mark Whittle has been travelling the world and speaking with some of the most successful athletes, entrepreneurs, and business founders to hear about the mindsets, philosophies and daily practices that have propelled them to reach their goals.
Here, Mark reveals their secrets with you, uncovering the four pillars of productivity so that you can also maximise your potential.
1. Prioritisation
Learning to plan and prioritise your work is vital for peak performance and productivity. Each morning, identify your most important tasks for the day – the things that, no matter what, you need to finish by the end of the day. With a renewed focus on what’s important, it’s easier to create a meaningful to-do list.
2. Peak Productivity Hours
Getting to know your ‘peak productivity hours’ and scheduling your high-value tasks around these times when you have the most energy is key to the productivity framework. More energy equals better results, faster. Be sure to eat a nutritious diet including foods rich in brain-boosting healthy fats.
3. Concentration
You can have all the time and energy in the world, but if you are constantly being bombarded with distractions and interruptions, this will be sure to take a toll on your efficiency. Creating a space free from distractions is key to uphold concentration for extended periods of time. For example, keep your phone on silent or put it in another room while focussing on your key tasks. Not only will you be a lot more disciplined, but you’ll get a lot more done!
4. Rest
Nobody, not even highly productive people, can focus for eight hours straight. Taking regular breaks is so important to avoid draining your energy levels, which will inevitably affect your productivity. Go for a walk, read an inspirational book, or listen to a peak performance podcast. Find whatever works for you to switch off momentarily for an energy boost. Breaks that are even just a few minutes can help you to recharge and refocus to reach your peak.