How to Stay Productive at Home This Summer

We’re well over a month into quarantine, and it’s no wonder that the weeks have started to drag on. It feels like we should have plenty of time without everyday distractions like long commutes and tense sporting events — but many Americans are actually finding it harder to be productive now more than ever.

We’ve gathered some of the most applicable productivity advice to put a new spring in your step before summer arrives.

Take a look!

Make a priority list

A priority list is different from a to-do list.

Instead of writing down all of the tasks — big and small — you think you need to complete, take the time to rank them in order of importance. This is helpful for two main reasons:

• You efficiently use your available time to make the biggest impact
• The age-old struggle of never reaching the end of your to-do list isn’t a problem when all the vital items are at the top

Here’s how to make a priority list.

Ask yourself “why”

First things first, you need to understand why you’re putting an item on your list.

We live in a society of small details and social media comparisons, especially with the increased online sharing during the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s easy to feel like there are dozens of things you need to get done — but some of them might not actually be that important.

Ask yourself these questions before putting something on your productivity list:

• What will be the impact of completing this task? What will be the impact if it doesn’t get done?
• Is this task directly related to my family’s health and well being?
• Is this task important to me and my personal goals, or do I feel like I should do it because of external pressures?

Break tasks into pieces

Once you’ve settled on the tasks that really matter, it can be helpful to break them into small parts. This lets you tackle your priority list in digestible increments — and you’re able to move towards your larger goals without feeling overwhelmed!

Here’s a great example for spring:

• Instead of saying you need to “clean the house”, focus on the most important rooms. Your list might say “organize kitchen cabinets” or “go through toys in the garage” instead.

Celebrate every win

An added bonus of breaking larger tasks into subtasks is the ability to celebrate every win.

Productivity begets productivity — there’s a reason people say you get more done throughout the day if you make your bed in the morning. The more “easy” things you accomplish, the more momentum you gain to move forward.

When you finish an item on your productivity list, no matter how small, take a moment to relish in the accomplishment.

Take intentional breaks

Even the most organized person with the most efficient priority list still needs to take breaks.

If you work too long without stopping — regardless of the task — your productivity dwindles. You need to give your mind a chance to relax in order to keep it sharp when it counts! We know this is easier said than done, but the nicer weather brings some particularly great opportunities.

Try to take frequent, short breaks that allow you to:

• Move your body. Even five minutes of stretching can get your blood flowing!
• Breathe fresh air. Nature is one of the world’s best energizers.
• Eat healthy food. Spend time cutting up fresh fruit instead of grabbing an on-the-go snack.
• Look into the distance. Too much screen time is hard on the eyes — be sure to periodically look at something at least 20 feet away.

Practice flexibility

When it really comes down to it, some of the most productive people are the ones who don’t plan every minute of their days, because they’re used to being flexible when things (inevitably) go awry.

Schedules, lists, and goals are extremely important to have during this stressful season. At the same time, it’s important to practice rolling with the punches! Avoid developing a routine that’s too stringent — otherwise a small change could drastically reduce your productivity down the line.

Check insurance off your list

No matter what else is going on in your life — from learning how to work remotely or teaching your children math or staying sane without your gym membership — you don’t need to worry about your insurance coverage.

Lindow’s hometown agents have your back now more than ever. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions about your policies or premiums!