In the pursuit of personal effectiveness, we often sacrifice our mental health. An incomplete to-do list guarantees stress, a spoiled mood, and bouts of self-criticism. However, efficiency is crucial for success today. How can we be productive while remaining in harmony with ourselves? Here are some suggestions.

1. Write down


No matter how trivial it may sound, keeping records of tasks on paper can help reduce anxiety and ensure you don't forget anything.

The Eisenhower matrix consists of four quadrants, based on two axes - the axis of importance (vertical) and the axis of urgency (horizontal). As a result, each quadrant has its own distinct qualities. All tasks and matters are recorded in each quadrant, which creates a clear and objective picture of what should be done first, second, and what should not be done at all. This concept is quite simple, but a few explanations might still be helpful.

2. Set priorities


A day has 24 hours, and a week has 7 days. We can't manage time, but we can manage our energy and decide what to spend it on. An effective planning system can help with this, by dividing tasks according to criteria of importance and urgency.

Start the day with important and urgent tasks. Then, focus on important but not urgent matters. As a rule, you can delegate some tasks and completely ignore the rest.

3. Include rest in the schedule


It's crucial to remember to recharge for further victories. Even if we are productive in the morning, concentration weakens over time, attention becomes scattered, and it takes time to restore energy.

However, when we take breaks from work, we may feel guilty, which is unlikely to help restore strength. Therefore, make rest a legitimate part of your schedule, allow yourself a short break, and include it in your to-do list. This way, you will replenish energy reserves without experiencing remorse because it was a planned break and it didn't stretch out for the whole day.

4. When embarking on a new task, think why you are doing it


Sometimes we fall into the trap of the "to-do list" when crossing off tasks in a diary becomes a goal in itself. Ask yourself: "If I don't do this right now, what will happen?" Perhaps it's worth deleting this item or returning to it later.

5. Use the rule of two minutes


If a task can be completed in two minutes, do it right away. It will take much more time and effort to write it into a planner and to revisit it later.

6. Work in productive time


Each person has their own peak productivity time. Analyze your effectiveness throughout the day and try to organize your schedule so that the most important and responsible tasks occur during this time.

7. Turn off notifications


Turn off all, or almost all, notifications: promotional SMS, mailing lists, messages from friends on Facebook, WhatsApp, and Skype. Each notification that you pay attention to not only steals precious seconds of time but also disrupts your "flow" state. This can lead to stress without you even realizing it.

When you need maximum concentration, it's best to use the Do Not Disturb mode. Trust me, you won't miss anything and will be able to return to messages as soon as you finish the current task.

8. Start the day with something nice


Create a morning ritual for yourself. A leisurely cup of delicious coffee, yoga, reading, or your favorite music - any small thing can make your morning a little happier and provide an energy boost for the entire day.

9. Difficult tasks first


There are several different opinions regarding the prioritization of tasks. Some experts suggest starting with one or two simple tasks to get into work mode. However, it's worth trying a different approach. If you have a difficult or unpleasant task, do it first. This not only allows you to tackle the tough tasks with a fresh mind and energy but also provides an excellent mood from the work done for the rest of the day.

10. Sleep well, eat healthy and exercise


Your body is the "hardware" for your brain, and you will never reach your full potential unless you take care of your body. Exercise has been proven to improve mental abilities, while a lack of quality sleep can worsen them.

Always remember: you are a person, not a robot. It's essential to maintain harmony with yourself because achieving goals, no matter how significant, is difficult without peace of mind.

Plan and keep in mind that your mental health is your top priority.