by Rana Williamson

Created on: May 11, 2009

Getting daily tasks accomplished in a world that seems to bombard us on all sides can seem overwhelming - because it is! The real keys to productivity lie in maintaining personal accountability, controlling positive distractions, attempting the right level of multi-tasking, mandating uninterrupted time, and crafting your working environment.

List: Forward or Backward

Lists do work, but not the same way for everyone. Some people like working down a "to do" list, while others cower in the face of a tiny piece of paper bearing enumerated items. If you're one of those, write down what you have done and watch the list grow during your day. Either way, writing down what you've done or need to do creates personal accountability. Many highly efficient people keep a personal notebook that's part agenda, part journal, and part brainstorming platform. It's a tool to maximize the power of the hand/eye/mind connection.

Multitasking or Getting Distracted?

In 2007 the New York Times reported on the potentially negative effects of multitasking. Citing several sources, the article recommended checking email once an hour, listening to soothing music while studying, and cutting out other distractions like TV, instant messaging, and the cellphone. Other studies, however, indicate that speech noise in the modern workplace actually presents the greatest distraction. In truth, productive people go with their distraction of choice. If another person talking drives you crazy, put on your headphones and listen to music or white noise. If you can do two things at once, but can't juggle a third, know your limits. Do what feels natural.

Manage Interruptions

Some period of uninterrupted time is necessary, especially on major projects, to achieve the level of focus and concentration necessary to make real progress. Set aside an hour or two early in the morning (or late at night if that works better in your life) when you focus on one thing - the most complicated task, the one that's due the fastest - you choose, but guard that time jealously. If necessary, turn the phone off, put a sign on the closed door, or leave and go somewhere else. But protect that period during which you can achieve what efficiency experts call "flow."

Control Your Environment

Whether you work from home or in an office, clearly designate your working space. Make yourself comfortable and surround yourself with things that keep your spirits up. If possible, when you hit a snag, pick up the laptop or other materials and go somewhere

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