Every holiday season, I find myself scrambling at the last minute. Despite my best intentions, I often realize just days before the holiday that I haven't made any plans. This recurring pattern has left me feeling overwhelmed, especially with a growing to-do list that seems impossible to tackle.

"I should've consolidated my thoughts and begun bringing those plans to life."

 

Easter is usually no different than other holidays. While my husband took charge of our meal plans, the rest was up in the air. Instead of succumbing to my usual procrastination, I turned to Pinterest for guidance. I sought advice on managing overwhelm, prioritizing tasks, and boosting productivity.

What to do when you are too overwhelmed? How to prioritize? How to be efficient? How to be productive in your life?

 

After spending considerable time (perhaps too many hours!) on Pinterest, I discovered several valuable tips. As time is of the essence, I've chosen to implement only the most impactful and intriguing strategies into my routine.

 

My top 5 best productivity tips

 

1. WRITE DOWN YOUR TOP 3 MOST IMPORTANT THINGS THAT YOU WILL DO TODAY

   1. I will make a mood board for my Easter table setting ideas

   2. I will make a shopping list for my Easter shopping

   3. I will start cleaning our house (like immediately!)

      👉🏻 Brainstorm all your ideas and write them down on paper.

      👉🏻 Start one thing that is on your top 3 things list and start doing it for 30 minutes.

      👉🏻 Change your location and view.

      👉🏻 Eliminate all distractions.

2. YOUR TOP 3 IMPORTANT DUTIES

First, prioritize the tasks on your To-Do list. It's unrealistic to tackle everything in one day.

Identify the most pressing tasks for today. What are your primary objectives? Are they truly essential?

Are they going to help you to gain more clients to your business? Are they going to make you feel healthier?

Will the tasks generate more time with your family? After completing your duties will you be happier?

 

My top priority at the moment is planning our Easter table setting.

We're hosting my husband's parents for an Easter dinner, and I aim to create a stunning ambiance. Once I've crafted a mood board, I'll bring my ideas to life tomorrow.

 

3. BRAINSTORMING

Brainstorming can be daunting, especially when juggling multiple tasks, as I am currently. However, it's essential to pour out all your thoughts.

Jot down every task, idea, and even the smallest details that might prove useful later. This way, you'll have a reservoir of items to populate your weekly or monthly to-do lists.

 

🎉 Clearing your mind of clutter is liberating.

Brainstorming not only helps declutter but also sparks fresh ideas from seemingly chaotic thoughts.

I'm a huge advocate for brainstorming. In fact, I have at least five notebooks brimming with brainstormed ideas. 😅

 4. JUST DO IT

The third step is straightforward: take action.

Begin now!

Dive into creation and production. It's crucial to see progress for your own well-being.

Indeed, once this blog post is complete, I'll immediately start crafting my mood board.

5. CHANGE YOUR SCENERY

Sometimes, a change in perspective is all you need.

Shifting your workspace can instantly rejuvenate your energy and spark fresh ideas. It doesn't require a drastic change - simply moving to a different room can make a difference.

Transition from the office to the kitchen, the bedroom to the living room, or even from home to a coffee shop. Embrace small changes, as they're often more manageable and impactful.

In our home, we have a dedicated office space. Today, I'll grab my iPad, pour a glass of sparkling, and settle into our living room to craft my mood board.

👉🏻 This shift in environment is bound to inspire creativity.

 

6. ELIMINATE ALL DISTRACTIONS

My final tip holds significant weight for me. Initially, the idea seemed unthinkable!

How could I possibly turn off my iPhone, resist checking my emails intermittently, and embrace silence? Yet, it's entirely achievable! 

Being truly present enhances your effectiveness. It's about focusing on one task, one moment at a time. This principle isn't just for work—it's vital in personal interactions too.

When you're with your spouse, be in that moment. Resist the urge to constantly check your phone.

When playing with your children, immerse yourself fully in that play. Everything else should fade into the background.

This mindset has been transformative for me.

If it seems challenging, reflect on the life you aspire to lead. Consider the memories you cherish most. I guarantee they won't be the times you were glued to your email.

 

Have a relaxing Easter Holiday!