Blog

I am by no means a productivity expert—just someone who, like many of you, tries my best to stay on track every single day. Let’s be honest, not always successfully! But through trial, error, and experience, I've figured out the key habits that help me get the most out of my days.

At the beginning of the year, we all start with a determined mindset, focused on hitting our goals. But as months pass, motivation can fade, and productivity can take a hit. Staying committed throughout the year is a challenge, but that’s why I want to share these practical tips that have helped me. I hope they make a difference for you too.

1. Create a Daily Schedule That Works for You

Outlining your day allows you to prioritize tasks while leaving room for spontaneity.

The key is balance—structure helps eliminate guesswork, but too much rigidity can cause unnecessary stress. That’s why I like breaking my schedule into three simple sections: morning, afternoon, and evening. It makes the day feel less overwhelming, and I can adjust it based on my energy levels throughout the day.

Try incorporating open time slots into your schedule—these untitled blocks give you the flexibility to handle unexpected tasks without feeling like your calendar is falling apart. Figuring out what schedule works best for you may require some trial and error, but once you get it right, it will transform the way you approach your days.

2. Adapt Your Schedule to Life’s Changes

Life is unpredictable, and some days don’t go as planned. Instead of feeling defeated when things don’t go perfectly, accept the unexpected and adjust accordingly.

For example, if you end up staying up late, don’t force yourself to wake up at your usual time if it means sacrificing sleep. Getting a full eight hours is non-negotiable—your body and brain depend on it. Instead, shift your routine slightly:

• Try a quicker morning makeup routine (I have a go-to five-minute routine I swear by—maybe I should write about that next!)

• Make your workout shorter but more intense to maximize efficiency.

• Opt for a 10-minute guided meditation instead of your usual 20-minute session.

Small changes like this will help you stay productive without burning yourself out.

If you find your lunch break is shorter than usual, don’t cram in a difficult task. Instead, take that time for a well-deserved mental recharge. Productivity isn’t just about doing more—it’s about working smarter, and sometimes that means taking intentional breaks.

3. Set 3–4 Manageable Goals Per Day

Having daily micro-goals is a game-changer.

Productivity isn’t just about tackling massive tasks—it’s about making progress consistently. Even the smallest achievements can make a difference, whether it’s:
Doing laundry
Following your self-care routine
Getting in a short workout

When I first started the process publishing a book, the idea felt overwhelming. I was constantly thinking about the end goal, which made it feel unattainable. But when I broke it down into small steps, things became manageable, and each tiny accomplishment added up over time.

Think of it like eating a steak—you wouldn’t shove the entire thing into your mouth at once, right? You take bite-sized pieces, chew them properly, and savor the process. Goals work the same way. The key is consistent progress, not exhausting yourself with enormous tasks all at once.

4. Find a Planner That Actually Works for You

I’ve kept a planner every year since high school, but my track record of consistently using them? Not great. I would start the year ready to plan every detail of my life, but after a few weeks, my planner would end up collecting dust. However, last year, I purchased Rupi Kaur’s planner, and it actually made a difference.

It wasn’t just a calendar—it had stickers, poems, and creative prompts that made organizing fun. Did I use it every day? No. But I used it more days than I didn’t, which was a huge improvement. The key is finding a planner that fits your style—whether you want minimalism, creativity, or something highly structured, there’s something out there for you.

5. Incorporate De-Stress Activities into Your Routine

Stress is one of the biggest productivity killers. If your mind feels overwhelmed, it becomes harder to focus, make rational decisions, and complete tasks efficiently. That’s why it’s crucial to include stress-reducing activities in your daily routine. For me, I love creative hobbies like sketching, writing, and crochet. But relaxation looks different for everyone. Here are some ideas to try:

Sketching or painting
Writing
Crochet or crafting
Getting enough sleep
Yoga or meditation
Listening to music
Spending time outdoors or with animals

Whatever helps you unwind and refocus will benefit your productivity in the long run. When you finish a task, you should feel fulfilled, not drained.

Final Thoughts

These five strategies are what help me stay productive every day. Productivity isn’t about being perfect—it’s about progress.

Some days will be better than others, and that’s okay. The real goal is bettering yourself daily. That way, no matter what else happens, you’re moving forward.

So, give these tips a try and see how they work for you. Life has so much in store—let’s make the most of it!

*All images courtesy of Pixabay