I’ve never thought of myself as an organized person, but I recently spoke to a group who complimented me on being so productive. As we discussed this, I came to realize that not everyone makes a schedule for themselves as to what they wish to accomplish during their online work day.
My goal is to work about 4 hours each day during Monday through Friday. I sometimes write an article or two on the weekends, and I enjoy using Twitter as well, but I haven’t ‘worked’ on weekends or holidays since 2008.
At the end of each day I make a list of what I want to work on for the following day. I write down my article ideas and what topics I will be blogging about, as well as scheduling my teleseminars and interviews. The following morning I am able to see right away how I will be spending my time.
You must make a work schedule and stick to it if you wish to be successful online. Think of it as a ‘real’ job that you get to do from wherever you have an internet connection, during the hours you choose to do it. Slow and steady wins the race, so make a plan and you will build an internet business that allows you the time and financial freedom to live your dreams.
Sandra Martini says
Hi Connie,
Great post! I was just interviewed on how to “Create Extraordinary Results through Ordinary Actions” and what you describe above is exactly that — one of those ordinary actions (planning your day) which brings absolutely amazing results.
And for those who need more structure (such as me), I recommend using a timer so that you have a “formal” amount of time to focus on getting that article written or putting up that landing page.
Great job!
Sandy 🙂
Elisabeth Kuhn says
Hi Connie,
what a great post. Reminding us that the solution to productivity doesn’t have to be complicated, yet making a schedule and actually sticking to it is something I’m still finding quite a challenge.
Another case of the commonsense stuff making the biggest difference if actually followed.
Thanks for the inspiration.
Elisabeth
Suzie Cheel says
Hi Connie,
Great info and I love that u just work 4 hours a day and no weekends. Like Elizabeth I am still challenged
Simplicity is the key I see
Thanks for sharing
Suzie
trista says
Great post-i find myself bogged down wG the distractions like twitter and myspace, etc. I’ll give it a try.
Debra Marrs, Editor and Coach for Writers says
Connie, your tips are spot on! I know this because in a former life before my writing life, I was a time management and organization expert with a private practice in the San Francisco Bay Area. What you say here is exactly what I’ve taught for two decades. And the reason is it works! You are living proof and such a marvelous example.
Thanks for the wonderful reminders of what it takes for ongoing success.
Debra
Ellen Zucker says
Thank you, Connie. Excellent advice.
Geena Murphy says
Very nice article on time management. Thanks for the great tips!
Avery Thurman says
I like what you said about slow and steady wins the race. How much time did you first put into it when you were working as a full time teacher and in Real Estate?
I’m a nurse who works full time 12 hour day/night shifts which is exhausting with not enough sleep and no more than 3 days off in a row.
Some weeks I have to work 60 hours/week. I find it hard to find time to do internet stuff with a hectic schedule and mundane things like grocery shopping, laundry, etc. I could not do 4 hours/day but I will try to find an hour or two on the days off when I’m not working.
When I joined the 30 day blogging challenge I did 2 or 3 blogs on my days off as I knew I would be too tired when working three 12 hour day or night shifts in a row.
Rob Metras says
You are such a role model of balance on time management. A good influence on those who have diffferent organizational talents.
Bill Baumgartner says
What you say is so true,
If you want to see progress and wish to be successful online, “You must make a work schedule and stick to it.”
You must approach your online business as a ‘real’ job, not just a hobby.