“Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans.” 🌀 ~John Lennon

productivity tips to finish the year well (#390)

As we approach the final stretch of 2024, I’ve been thinking a lot about productivity and balance. A recent tumble down some stairs (don’t worry, I’m okay, but my left foot isn’t too happy 😩) has got me reconsidering my own pace. It’s funny how the universe has its way of forcing us to slow down sometimes, isn’t it?

This unexpected pause led me to reflect on some productivity tips I shared last year. These gems (if I do say so myself) feel very top of mind, so I wanted to resurface them for you:

1. If a task takes 2 minutes or less, do it now.

2. Batching tasks is a game changer and saves you time in the long run. Context switching can be incredibly exhausting.

3. Use your peak productivity hours to work on your side hustle or passion project.

4. Take baby steps consistently, and you’ll be surprised how far you can go.

5. Timers are underrated. Go ahead and make it a “beat the clock” game.

6. Remember: 80% Done > 100% Perfect

7. The best time to take a break is when you feel like you can’t.

8. What you say no to is just as important as what you say yes to.

9. Don’t underestimate the power of 15 minutes.

10. It’s okay to say no to “hustle culture” if it doesn’t serve you. #teamsleep

While there’s often pressure to “finish the year strong,” I’m advocating for “finishing the year well,” which I learned from

Stephanie Pollock

:

“Imagine how you want to feel at the end of the day. Start working towards that now.” 🤔 ~Lin Manuel Miranda

This means prioritizing what truly matters to you, whether that’s pushing for a goal or taking time to recharge.

For me, this foot injury is forcing me to adapt my plans. No dance or swimming for a while, which is a real bummer. (I had to let myself have a good cry about it because, let’s be honest, it sucks).

I am viewing this as an opportunity to focus more on planning and reflection. I’m looking forward to returning to my Goodbye 2023, Hello 2024 journal, reflecting on the last quarter, and making realistic plans for the rest of the year.

What’s your focus for the rest of 2024? Are you working towards a milestone or carving out time for rest and reflection?

I’d love to hear your plans, too, so I can make sure you get some tips and resources in upcoming newsletters.

On to the picks!

P.S. If you’re looking for more ways to balance productivity and well-being, check out my Side Hustle Idea Kickstart. It’s designed to help you find your perfect side gig without burning out!

P.P.S.

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Note: This email may contain affiliate links. If you click through my link and make a purchase, I may receive “thank you money” at no additional cost. I only recommend products that I use and love.  

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#love 😍

• 🎁. Resource: Life of Yes℠ Gift Guide. My speaking coach (who does various other things) has released her annual guide, and it’s packed with meaningful presents:

  • Self-care event in January (featuring yours truly and other awesome folks)

  • Items for comfort and ease

  • Things to help you out with adult-y stuff

  • The list goes on…

  • Grab something that catches your eye. Let me know!

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#read

There are so many ways to get started with a side hustle.

Jamie Northrup

has a 4-step plan for you:

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#icymi

• 😍. Last issue’s top pick: 10 Amazon Prime Perks You Need to Be Using (3rd week in a row!)

“It’s just my little voice that I’ve been missing.” 💭 ~Sara Bareilles

• 🎤. ASK: My goal is to book ONE MORE paid speaking gig this year. If you know of one, I’d love an intro. I talk about side hustles, newsletters, and finding self-care in a busy life. Learn more about my speaking offerings here.

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#lifevibes

Tip: LaVerne Williams

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