Don’t bite off more than you can chew. Simplicity is productivity. Let me explain. Simplicity by definition is the absence of complication or clarity of expression. So, if we reduce or eliminate complications we should be more productive. Right. For instance, if you eliminate a task that consumes excessive time, you have bought yourself more time or increased your productivity on a different task.

Simplicity by definition is the absence of complication or clarity of expression.

Don’t get Overzealous!

But a problem arises. Humans by nature seem to have a need to replace things. So, when one task is eliminated we add another. We haven’t really resolved anything, have we? It doesn’t end there. We also have a tendency to overfill the plate. Guess what happens – we get full, oh and sometimes we get fat. Works for the short term. In the long run it causes burnout or other consequences.

When I first started blogging, I was excited. I discovered one new thing after another and wanted to try them all. A good learning curve but then I started formulating plans and devising schemes and analyzing. I was going to build so many web sites and write so many articles….STOP.

Be Productive

Before I knew it I had this master plan with lists of things and dozens of  ideas to pursue. We tend to want to take all of our ideas and start working on them simultaneously. When you realize that you only have so much time and ability to get your work done you will recognize a need for a more simple plan.

As an avid believer of the short work day/week, my goal always involves optimizing for efficiency. Concerted efforts will help you do more in less time. Vlad Dolezal of Fun Life Development has some interesting posts on productivity, focus and getting on with life. His execution of actions are generally simple, so naturally, I love them.

Learn to Focus

When you have the concept tweaked you can then add another idea since the original one has been implemented – this is known as focus. It’s easier to maintain focus if you are targeting a single idea instead of chasing random thoughts. Stick with one thing, keep it simple and you will be more productive. In our next article we will share with you some ideas of how to free up your time to focus on the things you need to do.

simple siment – pick one thing you want to focus on and get it done.

if you liked this post, take a gander at these ones

• tackle your workload with just 3 hours a day: 3 simple steps to get things done
• simplifying creates clarity
• keeping a simple office
• 8 reminders to help simplify your life
• what is voluntary simplicity