5 Harvard Business Productivity Hacks That Will Change Your Life

Everyone wants to be productive and get more done in less time, but sometimes it feels like there just aren’t enough hours in the day. The good news is that there are plenty of productivity hacks out there that can help you work smarter, not harder.

1. Time Blocking

One of the most effective productivity hacks is time blocking. This technique involves breaking up your day into specific chunks of time dedicated to certain tasks. By setting aside specific times for work, you can eliminate distractions and focus solely on the task at hand. In fact, according to a study conducted by Harvard Business Review, time blocking can help you reduce distractions and increase productivity by up to 90%.

2. The Pomodoro Technique

The Pomodoro Technique is a time management technique developed by Francesco Cirillo. The technique involves breaking your workday into 25-minute intervals called “Pomodoros,” followed by a five-minute break. After four Pomodoros, you take a longer break of 15-30 minutes. This technique helps you stay focused and avoid burnout.

3. Use a Productivity Planner

A productivity planner is a tool designed to help you organize your day and stay on track. One popular productivity planner is the High-Performance Planner, created by performance coach Brendon Burchard. The planner features daily productivity prompts, goal setting exercises, and reflection questions to help you stay focused and motivated.

4. Practice Inbox Zero

Inbox Zero is a productivity technique developed by Merlin Mann, a productivity expert. The technique involves keeping your email inbox empty or close to empty at all times, so you can focus on the most important tasks at hand. By organizing your emails and addressing them in a timely manner, you can reduce the stress and distraction caused by an overflowing inbox.

5. Create a “Not-To-Do” List

Just as important as a to-do list is a “not-to-do” list. This is a list of tasks or activities that you should avoid or delegate whenever possible. By removing non-essential tasks from your to-do list, you free up more time and mental energy to focus on what really matters.

Conclusion

If you’re looking to boost your productivity and get more done in less time, these five Harvard Business productivity hacks are a great place to start. Whether you try time blocking, the Pomodoro Technique, a productivity planner, Inbox Zero, or creating a not-to-do list, these techniques can help you work smarter, not harder.