
As the new year kicks into full gear, I’m finding myself in the zone—working like a maniac to build momentum for the year ahead.
And let me tell you, it's a fine line between the thrill of success and the exhaustion that often comes with it.
If you’re a high achiever like me, you know exactly what I’m talking about. You set big goals and juggle multiple tasks without dropping a single ball, but let's be real: all that busyness doesn’t always equal productivity.
That’s why today, I’m sharing 5 productivity hacks that help me work smarter, not harder. These are strategies I use to stay focused, intentional, and ultimately, less overwhelmed as I chase my big dreams. From one high achiever to another - maybe they’ll help you too!
1. The 80/20 Rule: Focus on What Moves the Needle
If you haven’t heard of the Pareto Principle (or the 80/20 rule), let me break it down for you: 80% of your results come from just 20% of your efforts. Fact.
High achievers often get stuck in the trap of thinking we need to do everything to succeed. But the truth is, it's not about doing everything—it's about doing the right things.
When I’m tackling my week, I structure my time to ensure 80% of my energy is spent on that 20% of activities that will actually move my goals forward. For example, I dedicate Mondays to my podcast, Tuesdays to client coaching and consultations, and so on. This focused approach allows me to batch tasks, minimize distractions, and ensure that at the end of the day, I’ve made meaningful progress.
Actionable tip: Take a moment today to identify your "needle-moving" activities and ensure you’re spending the majority of your time on them. What’s the one thing that, if you focused on it, would significantly move you closer to your goal?
2. Time Blocking: Take Control of Your Day
Time blocking is another game-changer. How often do we fall into the trap of checking emails or jumping from one task to another without a clear structure? This kills productivity.
Instead, schedule specific times for activities like email checking, meetings, and personal breaks. (I also make sure to schedule time for movement because, let’s face it, we all get so caught up in work that we forget to move our bodies! #personalgoal)
Actionable tip: If you haven’t already, try scheduling your day with time blocks. Plan out your work, your breaks, and even personal tasks like exercise or downtime. Managing your time means you’re not letting your day manage you.
3. Write It Down: Create Systems for Success
If you want to stay organized and productive, write everything down… no, seriously.
This isn’t just about keeping track of big projects but all the little things too.
For me, having a calendar system for everything—from family schedules to client meetings to personal tasks—keeps me sane. It’s a simple way to free my mind from remembering every detail because let’s face it, just like you, I’m human!
It might sound a bit extreme to have a family calendar, a work calendar, and even a "miscellaneous" calendar, but let me tell you—it works. This system ensures you never forget the little things, which ultimately helps us focus on the big things that really matter.
Actionable tip: Get yourself a calendar system that works for you, whether digital or physical, and commit to writing down everything—no matter how small. Creating systems will save you brain power for the more important stuff and allow you to show up as your best self!
4. Set Boundaries and Mean It
One of the hardest things for high achievers is learning how to say no. We’re driven by the desire to accomplish everything and please everyone, but that’s a fast track to burnout.
A powerful shift for me was seeing boundaries as swim lanes in the pool of life. Swim lanes are flexible and allow for movement, but they keep things structured and in order. By setting clear boundaries—whether it’s saying no to an event that doesn’t align with my goals or protecting my personal time—I create a life that flows with purpose.
Actionable tip: Practice saying no without guilt. Boundaries aren’t rigid; they’re fluid, and they’ll keep you from spreading yourself too thin… but you gotta have them! What boundaries could you set today to protect your time and energy?
5. Self-Reflection: Where Are You At?
It may seem counterintuitive, but taking a moment each day for self-reflection is a crucial productivity hack. Let’s be brutally honest… we are ALWAYS in hyper-drive. And, without tuning into our emotional and mental state, we risk burnout.
Every morning, I ask myself, “Where am I at?”—not physically, but emotionally and mentally. It’s a simple check-in that helps me stay connected to my deeper purpose and understand what I need to adjust in my day. Even if the answer isn’t always positive, just taking a moment to pause and check in makes me feel more grounded.
Actionable tip: Ask yourself where you’re at emotionally and mentally at the start of each day. Even if it’s just for a few minutes, this practice will help you stay in tune with yourself and be more intentional with your actions.
Wrapping It Up: Be Intentional with Your Time
Being a high achiever is amazing, but it’s also a challenge when it comes to balancing productivity with self-care. By implementing these 5 productivity hacks—focusing on the 20% that matters, time blocking, writing it down, setting boundaries, and practicing self-reflection—you can work smarter, not harder, and still achieve your big dreams without burning out.
So, what’s one productivity hack you can implement today? In a long list of hacks out there - what works best for you? I'd love to hear! Email me directly at brittney@brittneytollinchi.com
Let’s continue this journey of high achievement—without the overwhelm!
And, if you’re ready to go all-in on your big dreams and align your life to your greater purpose – I’m your coach! Be sure to complete the Coaching Inquiry Here and we’ll schedule your free consult call to see how coaching can serve you!
Until next time, keep striving for balance, focus, and fulfillment.
You got this!
EXTRAS:
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**Managing my time effectively has helped create space for more purpose-aligned actions. Grab your free copy of my Top 10 Time Freedom Tips Here!
**Does your Big Dream include a new job or career change? Not sure how to prepare yourself for your big quit? Grab the FREE "I want to quit my job" Preparation Checklist