What entrepreneur doesn’t have too much to do?
It’s okay. You’re among friends here with your long hours and frazzled look.
But it doesn’t have to be that way. Let me cut right to it.
There’s one thing about the way I run my business that always surprises people:
Some days I hardly work. Other days I don’t work at all. Even on weekdays. (Gasp!)
Honestly, the shocked looks I get with that confession took awhile to get used to. Doesn’t everyone take days off?
I can’t work full-throttle all day every day. I don’t have the stamina. And this actually helps my business. More on that in a minute.
This not-working-too-much approach was also true when I was in my old corporate job. Sure, I’d pretend to have my foot glued to the gas, but I really didn’t. I’d take extended yoga lunch breaks, dip out for long strolls in the sunshine, and leave by 2 or 3 on Fridays.
Why? Because 40+ hour weeks just aren’t reasonable. There, I said it. Now, Tweet it!
I’m not sure who decided 9-to-5, Monday-to-Friday was THE way to do things, but I actually get more done when I work less.
Say what?
Let me explain.
How Working Less Helps Me Get More Done
Since I don’t have the stamina for a 40+ hour work week, I don’t even try to put in that many hours. If I work too much, I’ll quickly burn out. And if I were to burn out, it would negatively affect my clients (and I’m not okay with that!).
Because of my fierce commitment to serving my clients, I have to take care of myself so I can take care of them.
At the same time, I’m also a type A overachiever perfectionist, and I love my business! I want to work, I want to create, and I want to do incredible things. But in order to do all things well, I have to balance all things.
And when all things are balanced, I’m working fewer hours and getting more done. This means I’m serving my clients well and having time for the rest of my life… and that’s a beautiful thing!
So how do I make it work? I have a few rules I follow. They’re simple yet incredibly powerful. So if you’re ready to work less and get more done, you may want to take notes…
Rule #1 for Getting More Done While Working Less: Focus
Work time should be just that – you, switched on, totally focused on the task at hand. Not playing around on Facebook for 30 minutes, then half-heartedly working on that blog post for 10.
When you’re working on writing a blog post, just write the blog post. When you’re with a client, give them 100%. When you’re answering email, focus on email.
Switching from task to task decreases your productivity, so stay focused on one thing at a time if you want to get more done by working less.
Rule #2: Work Only When You Have Energy
Honor your energy levels. Your car won’t run without gas, and your business won’t move forward if you’re running on empty.
Working when you have the energy will skyrocket your productivity. You’ll get more done in less time, because you’re ready and present. When you’re rested, you’re also able to keep your focus and avoid shiny object distractions.
Honoring your mental and physical needs doesn’t mean waiting until you collapse on your laptop. It means listening for that first inkling of “you should take a break right now” and having the guts to step away until you’re ready to refocus.
On the flipside, honoring your energy doesn’t mean “skip your commitments, go take a nap whenever you need to.” If you have client calls, meetings, or deadlines, honor them. But you can avoid overdoing it by not over-scheduling yourself in the first place.
Rule #3: Honor How You Feel, Moment to Moment
Throughout the day, turn your attention to the way you feel. When are you energized, tired, bored, or focused? What tasks create resistance?
As you notice your energy and emotional patterns, adjust what, when, and how you work on different tasks.
Love connecting with others in the morning? Book your client sessions early in the day.
Get bursts of creative genius right after lunch? Decide to use that time to draft your blog posts or work on your new offering, instead of invoicing or catching up on email.
Tired at 3 pm? Plan on a 15 minute power nap or a green smoothie break every day at 3.
Listen. To. Yourself. The more often you check in about the way you’re feeling, the less likely you are to stay on the express train to burn out. It will also help you honor your energy and stay focused.
Mindful reflection will also help you figure out what you may want to outsource or stop doing completely. Which brings me to the next one…
Rule #4: Commit to Crossing Things Off Your List
There will always be too much to do. So you must decide what you’re NOT going to do.
Along with your work tasks and career goals, you probably have another list entitled “Stuff to do when I have time.” It might include organizing the garage, reading that business book all your friends rave about, or finally editing your about page.
Get real with yourself. Which of those are you actually going to do in the next month? Likely, if it’s been on your list for more than 6 months, it’s really not that important. Cross if off. If it’s important, put it on your calendar and commit to getting it done. Those lingering to-do’s are huge energy drains.
Deciding not to do things doesn’t just save your mental and emotional well-being and your energy, it also helps you keep a clear mind. An impossible-to-achieve to-do list clutters your brain and your creativity. If it’s not going to happen, cross if off the list. Stick with what matters, and skip the rest.
Rule #5: Cut Yourself Slack When You Fall into Old Habits
Even though I’ve become practiced at these techniques, I can slip into old patterns. When I do, I don’t berate myself for it. That would only make things worse! Instead, I notice the habit and change it. Right then.
I get back on track and remember that we’re all always learning. And that’s okay.
As you learn to work smarter, know that it’s okay if you slip up. When you notice it, refocus on how you want to work and get yourself back on track. No drama necessary.
Are you ready to work less and get more done?
Now I want to hear from you!
How much are you actually working? Is that more than you want to work?
What changes can you implement today to start working fewer hours and actually get more done?
And, most importantly, what are you going to do for fun this week in your newfound free time?
I can’t wait to hear what you’ve got in the comments below.
Great article, Jenny.
I absolutely get more done when I don’t allow myself the distraction of Facebook! But for me the most important lesson I have learned in business is to do more of the work I LOVE. When I’m working on a new ebook or recipe or content that is fulfilling me creatively, I don’t even want the distraction of facebook or emails! I must admit, I do work longer hours when I’m doing the work I really love, but it doesn’t feel like work… does that count? 🙂
What a great addition to the list, Andrea: working on what you LOVE. There are definitely times when I work a super long week of long hours because I’m engrossed in a project. It’s not a regular occurrence, but it does happen. If you’re having fun, go for it!
Thanks for this post, Jenny! I’ve always felt resistant to writing copy around mid afternoon (2-3pm). My energy is just zonked, but I’ve always felt guilty about putting things down to go take the dog for a walk, take a power nap or work out for a bit. Now I realize that this will actually IMPROVE my productivity. And it’s ok to listen to my body.
You’re a smart woman, Janine! It absolutely could improve your productivity to take a break then. Isn’t that the coolest idea ever? Working less to get more done… 🙂
I get that exact slump too, Janine! It’s now my Chai Tea Time break, and totally refreshes me for a last burst of productivity afterwards. Liking your idea of a nap though… 🙂
Great post, Jenny!
I especially like rule #2 about the energy level. It has taken me a long time to allow myself to 1) check in with my energy level in the first place and 2) accept that there are some things that won’t get done that day, if it’s low.
By honouring that, I know I’ll have more energy tomorrow and that the tasks will get done quicker.
And on a last note, never underestimate the power of tasks marinating in the background, while you do something to nourish and boost your energy:)
We’re conditioned not to listen to our energy level. Heck, if I pulled that at my corporate job, my bosses would have looked at me sideways!
I also think you’re right about marinating in the background. I think a lot gets done “back there” in my head sometimes. It’s kind of magical!
I really appreciated this article! I was actually just laying in bed thinking about how I overload my days and always feel like I don’t accomplish anything! The reality is that I am so passionate about all my interests that my to do list becomes an impossible feat and I don’t feel gratitude for all that I do accomplish! I am also guilty of the time wasters and multi-tasking – I’m not kidding that I will be writing a blog list, answering emails, losing on Facebook, drafting a newsletter, watching a video and making a to do list of what else I want to do all at the same time! Yikes!!!! I love the advice to give 100% to one thing… I will do this today and let you know how I fare! Especially with the kids home for summer holidays. I will give them 100% of my attention and schedule time for work and time for play. Thanks Jenny! I was also impressed to see elements of my biz in this post! Mindfulness, connecting with an awareness if how we are feeling and checking in regularly- good stuff girl! 🙂
Great new shift, Melissa! I bet that one thing alone will make a huge difference. It is hard to be disciplined that way, but it is amazing what happens with our productivity and results when we do. Yes, please report back and let us know how it goes today. I’d love to hear.
Well, if you only count the actual work 😀 I’d say something like 4-5 hours a day, spread out through the day. My goal is 4-5 ours 4 days a week, but I have a ways to go before that. I’ve got 3 products, a magazine and a speech to create, then I can put some structure into it.
Love this. I think I forget to do no. 5 the most. Cut myself some slack when I fall off the track temporarily.
Jenny, LOVE your confession about the 40-hour workweek! It’s been interesting to watch the evolution of my work week and energy output as my business has grown. In the beginning, I thought I HAD to be working all the time or I wouldn’t (and didn’t deserve to be) successful. Thankfully that paradigm has been replaced by the belief that relaxing, play, and fun are just as critical to my work as actually doing the work. So much so that I consider those things my work too. Obviously it’s not relaxation and play that coaches my clients, but if I’m not relaxed and playful, they won’t be getting the best of me like they deserve.
I work about 2-4ish hours per day 2 days a week and the other two days are client days so about 7-8 hours those days for a combined 24ish hours per week. Over the next year, I’d like to move into a group program and retreats and limit my one on one coaching to one day per week with VIP clients. That’s what feels best right now!
As for play, I’m reading tons of just for fun, not personal dev or business, books right now. I’m planning road trips and hanging at the pool, getting ready for a family reunion and the beach. Truly, I have to be focused in my work WITHOUT guilt or I wouldn’t have time for all this fun!
Your comments strike a chord, Sara! I used to think I needed to work more, too, even though there wasn’t a lot of work to be done. Now, I could literally work a hundred hours of week because there’s so much to do, but I’m more careful about how often I actually work! Such a funny switch.
I’m really impressed with how you’ve mapped out your hours and your plans for your business. That’s smart thinking and awesome to see. With clarity and vision like that, I know you’ll make it happen.
I definitely would love to know what fun books you’re reading. I tend to read business books on vacation and could use a few more brainless ones on my list!
Isn’t it awesome that you could work more if you WANT to — what a luxury!
My booklist right now since you asked:
Scarlet Feather by Maeve Binchy
Wild
The Fault In Our Stars
Run by Ann Patchett
The Alchemist
Beautiful Ruins
The Afterlife of Billy Fingers
An Altar in the World
Get going, girl! Fun books rock!
Thanks, Sara! I’ll add them to my Amazon wishlist to check out!
My pleasure!
Great post Jenny!
I am particularly struggling with Rule#3 and Rule#5! I have a maximum of 4 hours of work daily as I have chosen to work from home and raise my 18mo old little girl! And 4 hours of work are not much if I am not completely focused! Sometimes it is challenging! I found that a clean diet (green smoothie a must!) and a daily productivity plan are my best allies! I hope I can count on good night’s sleep soon as well! Love your posts!
Focus will definitely be your friend here, Sonja! Remember, it’s a muscle that needs practicing, so give yourself some slack (rule #5) as you learn!
Right on time Jenny! And I was just thinking about you because the word “system” has been coming up a lot for me lately. This is an excellent article and I am doing most of these. I just started with Rule #2 and your article is a great confirmation that I am moving in the right direction. Your tweetable is so on point that it is redonkulus! I have been preaching this statement like for years!!! I am so glad you said it.
I actually said a big AMEN and wanted to pass the collection plate (LOL)! You SAID THAT JENNY! Now what I find interesting is when you said you would pretend to have your foot glued to the gas in corporate. Ironically, I kept that same work ethic and found myself doing this in my business since it was embedded from corporate, but I eventually figured out quickly when my bank account was empty (and it was never empty in corporate, even if you pretended…you get what I’m saying)…lol.
Such a great article Jenny! Perfect timing!
Thank you so much for this post, Jenny! I beat myself up constantly for feeling like I’m “not working hard enough.” But I’ve come to realize that working past my energy limit and burning myself out leads to resenting my vision, not loving and honoring it.
It’s kind of like that old saying “When mama ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy.” If I’m not loving my business, then I’m not really serving anyone else. And you are 100% right about focus. For me, that one is critical.
I love that you see that working past your energy limit doesn’t serve you at all. Yay! That’s the best thing you can do for yourself, your family, and your business!
Stephanie, so funny the ” if momma ain’t happy” part! And after not hearing it for years, I actually used it in my free phone retreat last night, but changed it to ” if ladies ain’t happy, nobody’s happy” — something must be in the air that it came out of both of us so close together 🙂
🙂 I love it, Sara! It’s funny how the universe works those little things into our lives.
I’m a timer-setter, myself. I tell Siri to let me know when an hour’s up, and I give sustained focus to whatever I’m doing. (I also set the timer for “breaks” in between those focus sessions.) It’s pretty amazing that, while I may be restless for the first 10 mins or so, I eventually sink in and get really good work done.
Setting the timer also helps when the project’s a big one and I’m daunted or tempted to procrastinate because it’s “too big for right now” – I tell myself, “You don’t have to FINISH it, or even get to a specific point..you just need to put an hour’s work into it…” It’s always easier.. (And yeah, I talk to myself a lot…) 😉
I didn’t know Siri could do that! I love learning new tricks!
Some of my clients are huge fans of the timer. I’ve never really implemented that well, so I appreciate you adding that here. I’m positive others could benefit from that addition as well. Thank you for sharing!
Thank you so much for posting this Jenny! I love your posts because they’re straight-to-the-point & filled with tons of applicable advice. I totally agree that you should definitely be in tune with your energy level when creating your own work day. I know how I can get so much more done when I’m inspired & then I’m just in go-mode. But plenty of other times I’m just distracted & I know that’s a cue for me to rest or do some inner self-reflection. It’s a red-flag that something’s off & I need to do a self check-up! I especially needed to hear this now because I’m in that transition phase where I’m planning to haul it out of my ‘day-job’ soon & jump into my online coaching biz full-time. I already notice my energy waning from the 9-5 because my passion is completely not in what I’m doing & I feel like I’m taking away time & energy from my biz. But it’s an adjustment & I’m working on making the leap. So thanks again for your tips & lovely tricks – much appreciated.
Thank you for those kind words, Diane. That is my aim: to be straight-to-the-point & filled with tons of applicable advice. I’m thrilled that it comes through on your end. Thank you for saying so.
I’m impressed by how tuned into your energy you and your ability to self-reflect. That’s amazing and a hugely helpful skill in business! I know it will serve you well as you make the transition. And best of luck to you as you make the leap. I’m here cheering you on!!
Down with the 40-hour work week! And while we’re at it, down with the 5-day work week! Who came up with this stuff?! It grates against our natural rhythms.
Thanks so much for this Jenny! In the middle of this article I realized I was feeling totally drained, bored and tired….SO I took a 2 minute calm.com break and I am now ready to ditch the distractions and get back to working on guest posts and then my new ebook for my opt-in! 🙂
Yay for mini-breaks!!
This is exactly what I teach at my fibromyalgia/lupus support group. I also promote it for folks with bi-polar. Because it works so well with the biological clock. Yet dummy me never thought to promote it to “real workers” those who are employed without illness to work around.
It is a great plan and all should follow it before the illnesses take hold. If people listened to their own bodies and how we are created we would be a lot healthier society.
Yes — this stuff absolutely works for non-sick people, too! In fact, the more we employ these tips, the more we get done and the healthier we all are. And isn’t that wonderful?!
Another fabulous post Jenny! I also work when inspired and so many friends have said they have no idea how I take care of 2 twin toddlers, run my business and have plenty of time for self-care!
I love women who defy the norm like that. Rock on, Lana!! You’re an inspiration to everyone who doesn’t think it’s possible 🙂
Good stuff to come back from my nap to. I practice the same thing and try to get my clients to do the same. Thanks!
Great post, Jenny. “…finally editing your about page” may always live on my list. I’ve always thought the 40-hour work week arbitrary and uncivilized, which is why I’ve been in business for myself for years. I did have to make peace with the fact that I’m productive in the mornings, not so much in the afternoon and that some projects will mean 40+ hour weeks. But they will be followed by rest and recovery, and that ebb and flow is just one of the beauties, for me, of owning my own business.
OMG, I can totally relate to this! I was just thinking this today when I left my office at 1PM because I felt that I needed to stop working for today! It felt amazing and I got to spend the afternoon with my kids instead of “forcing” myself to work 🙂 Thanks for such a great post!
Yay for you for stopping at 1!! Keep up that level of listening over forcing and you’ll be right on track!
I had to figure this put the hard way. I thought that if I woke up early, 5 or 6 AM I could get so much more done but it turned out, when I honor the fact that my body likes to sleep (or at least rest) until 7 I can get up and be more focused. I also benefit from a 15-20 minute nap around 2PM. Mornings are my most productive time for writing and creating. Thank you for this reminder to listen to ourselves and honor how we work best, it truly is more fun to be in business when we are kind to ourselves instead of torturous!
Love the clarity you have around your own work schedule and how to keep it sustainable! That’s essential in this non-stop world. Thanks for sharing!
You’re spot on!
I believe that focus is the single best way for people to work less.
Someone once wrote that in all their professional career they had never seen even a senior executive actually work more than 25 hours in a week!
Those senior execs make a good show of working pretty dang hard, though! We’ve all been fooled! 🙂
This is a great article! I have been running my business for 15 years now, so I’ve had the experience of working ALL the time and not having time for myself or my friends. Not anymore. I regularly do the things you talked about and it serves me well. I often take naps in the middle of the afternoon – which often really helps me figure out designs I am working on. Just giving space for my ideas to breathe helps them much more than forcing “productivity”. This summer I’m not working very much, instead I’m out playing in the forests, lakes and mountains. Sometimes I have to pinch myself – can my business really run when I’m having such a good time?!?! Yes, it can! I’m all for creating a new paradigm for entrepreneurs where we are personally healthy and fulfilled WHILE running our businesses and making the world a better place!
Love that you pinch yourself like that — I do, too!
“Can my business really run when I’m having such a good time?!?! Yes, it can!”
Enjoy all that you’ve created, and high five for finding this sweet spot!
I particularly like “commit to crossing things off your list.”
I had a baby eight (almost nine months) ago and I simply can’t keep track of everything I need/want to do so I started making lists of EVERYTHING I can think of that I want to accomplish when it comes to my work.
Getting rid of things that are no longer relevant is important, as you say.
It’s also great when there is suddenly an open few minutes of time of which I hadn’t planned. Instead of wasting those precious minutes, I can go to the list and see what I can tackle.
List-making, generally speaking, is so obvious that it gets overlooked. When I went back to this, it made me feel so much less anxious. And…the “cross-off” feels SO good.
You must be very organized and efficient to keep a business and 8 kids (plus yourself) all together. Wow!!! Enjoy the cross-offs and thanks for sharing what’s working for you!
This is one of the things I admire MOST about you, lady.
Love these tips. And I’m totally going to bed early tonight (which I NEVER do…), so high five to me and thanks to YOU for the inspiration! 😉
Yay for going to bed early! During the summer between my sophomore and junior years in college I met someone named Sarah who was devoted to sleeping adequately every night no matter what. I thought she wasn’t making the smartest move but decided to give it a try. The next year, my health, my grades, and my mood skyrocketed. I’m now a well-slept woman! (Though I don’t have kids, so I realize that makes it a bit easier!) Sleep rocks!
Great post, Jenny! Wanted to chip in with this great tool for creating focus – The Pomodoro Technique (Pomodoro = tomato in Italian; there is a tomato timer involved!). Set a timer to 25 minutes. Work until the timer goes off. Take a 5 minute break. Do this sequence a total of four times, then take a half-hour break. If you have more work to do, you can begin the two-hour set again. You can work a bit more or a bit less in the segments, e.g. if you’re in flow and don’t want to stop when the timer goes off, or if it’s a convenient place to stop before starting your next chunk.