Single Best Productivity Tip

Ben Yoskovitz at Instigator Blog has initiated a collection of 100+ Great Productivity Tips. He's used a multiplier to get the collection started - one person asks 5 more, those 5 ask 5 each for 25 and on from there. Our objective: to write a post with the single best productivity tip we've (I've) got. I like to think there are 100s of such tips here at the Productivity Cafe and you need to find the one that works best for you.

My personal single tip for productivity: Step Back and Get Perspective.

When I step back and ask myself "Why am I doing this, interested in this, have this on my list, want to own that, or desire to travel there?" my priorities are highlighted. With vivid priorities it's easy to pick what activities to do, whom to do activities with, what things to own, and destinations to move toward. This also aids in eliminating things that are influenced from outside such as advertising or the Joneses. Perspective guides me and with good perspective I have a useful to-do list, uplifting collection of friends with whom to seize the day, and projects for professional and personal success.

Rather than read through all the submissions so far as time constraints have me, here are 2 that work for me Zen Habits writer Leo's suggestion to simplify.

Over at Chrisg.com Chris gives on that all athletes will relate to - flow or the zone. As a cyclist in a paceline I am in the flow and think, "Anyone who could feel this would be addicted!"

Comments

[Travis]

Excellent tip! My Sifu used to say, "When you stand on the mountain, the problems in the valley don't look so big."

[Alan]

I agree. Hesitation may not be necessary in some situations but I think it's important in making our decisions. We need to be aware of the things that needs consideration.

[Fran]

Nice post. Stepping back is a good idea. We don't need to rush things. Some of them may not be safe and sure. We have to be cautious of our decisions and try considering other things.