Why you are busy but don't feel productive

The Better Workday Podcast – Episode 57 with Niamh Moynihan

Episode Summary

In this episode of The Better Workday Podcast, Niamh Moynihan discusses some of the common reasons you might feel busy yet unproductive. Niamh explores why we often find ourselves overwhelmed with tasks but still feel like we've accomplished nothing. She discusses the importance of planning, tracking unexpected tasks, and recognising the work we do. 

Whether you're grappling with an endless to-do list or juggling multiple projects, this episode offers practical ideas to help you feel more accomplished and satisfied with your work.

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Key Takeaways

Begin with a Plan

One of the main reasons people feel busy but not productive is the lack of a clear plan. Without setting specific goals or outcomes for the week, it's challenging to know when you've accomplished enough.

Planning helps you identify what needs to be done and provides a sense of direction. By having a "minimum viable plan," you can focus on achieving key outcomes and measure your progress effectively.

Pay Attention to Interruptions

Life and work are unpredictable, and unexpected tasks often derail our plans. Many people don't track these interruptions, leading to a sense of unproductivity at the end of the day.

By documenting these unexpected tasks, you can better understand where your time goes and recognise the productive work you did, even if it wasn't part of your original plan. This awareness can help you create more realistic plans in the future and manage similar interruptions more effectively.

Close the Recognition Gap

The recognition gap is a common issue where individuals fail to acknowledge the work they've completed. High expectations can lead to feelings of inadequacy, even when significant progress has been made.

It's crucial to recognise and celebrate the work you have done, even if it's not 100% complete. Understanding that progress takes time and acknowledging the steps you've taken can boost your morale and motivation.

Practical Tips

• Set Weekly Goals: At the start of each week, outline three key outcomes you want to achieve. This "minimum viable plan" will guide your efforts and help you focus on what's most important.
• Track Unexpected Tasks: Use a simple spreadsheet or a productivity tool to log any unexpected tasks or interruptions that arise during the week. This will help you understand where your time is going and provide insights for future planning.
• Conduct a Weekly Review: At the end of each week, review your accomplishments and the tasks you completed. Reflect on what went well and what could be improved, and adjust your plans for the following week accordingly.
• Allocate Time for Core Tasks: Dedicate a specific amount of time each day or week to focus on your most important tasks. This could be as little as 30 minutes a day, but it ensures that you're making progress on your core work.
• Celebrate Small Wins: Take time to acknowledge and celebrate the progress you've made, even if it's not complete. Recognising small wins can boost your confidence and keep you motivated to continue working towards your goals.

Take Action This Week

Download the free My Desk productivity system template mentioned in the episode to help you track and manage your tasks better.

https://abetterworkday.com/mydesk 

Until next time, stay well and have a better workday.