As a business owner, your most valuable asset is your time, since it’s a limited resource. And as you get older, you realize just how limited your time is. That’s why if you’re like most folks, you’re always looking for ways to get more done in less time. But if you’re not careful, you could be making mistakes that actually cost you valuable time. Read on to see if you’re making these productivity mistakes…

Mistake 1: Multitasking

Many people are under the assumption that multitasking allows them to get more done in less time. In fact, researchers have found the opposite to be true. Every time you take your focus off the task at hand, you lose productivity. That’s why the experts say it’s much better to focus on ONE task and get it done before moving onto the next task.

This is one of the reasons that I use the Pomodoro Method to help keep me focused on the task at hand.

Mistake 2: Getting Sidetracked

It’s easy to think that you’ll just quickly check Facebook before you begin working for the day, or that you’ll look at a few YouTube videos. Next thing you know, hours have gone by, you’ve been totally sidetracked, and you’ve gotten next to nothing done.

Don’t make this mistake. If you have a tendency to get sidetracked, then you’ll want to take steps to prevent it. For example, if checking Facebook is your downfall, then put your laptop into “airplane mode” so that you can’t mindlessly surf the internet when you’re supposed to be writing. Or if you need to use the internet for research, then install an app that blocks social media or other tempting sites during set times of the day.

Mistake 3: Improper Planning

There are two mistakes you can make here:

• Failing to plan. If you don’t plan your days, then you’re going to find yourself going whichever way the wind blows – and that’s highly unproductive. So be sure you have a to-do list in front of you at the beginning of each day. Putting the to-do list together the night before has really helped me when I get up early to work on my business.

• Planning too much. If you try to squeeze something into every minute, you’re going to end up stressed out and overwhelmed. That too isn’t very productive and can easily lead to other issues, like getting sidetracked and procrastination.

Mistake 4: Not Making Use of Your Best Hours

Most people have about two or three hours of the day that are their prime hours. This is the time of the day when you’re the most focused, energetic and creative. Problem is, most people fritter away this focused time by doing little tasks like answering emails.

This time of the day is different for everyone. It’s up to you to determine your peak productivity hours, and then schedule your most important and/or most difficult tasks during this time.

Mistake 5: Starting with Easy Tasks

If you want to get more done in a day, then get your most difficult tasks done first. These tend to require the most concentration, and so you may be “shot” after you finish them. And that’s okay, if you’ve scheduled the rest of the day with some of your easier tasks.

Conclusion

Did you catch yourself making any of these mistakes? If so, correct the mistake as soon as possible… and watch your productivity soar!