Productivity On The Go

 

“Convenience culture seduces us into imagining that we might find room for everything important by eliminating only life’s tedious tasks. But it's a lie. You have to choose a few things, sacrifice everything else, and deal with the inevitable sense of loss that results.” – Oliver Burkeman

I often have chunks of time where I could get something done or enjoy reading (IF I plan ahead). This was something I faced as a college student with an overwhelming homework list and a demanding class schedule. As a busy mom, I do my best to make the most of gaps in my schedule by bringing things with me. 

Here is a common situation: I have just dropped off the kids for an activity and I have a specific amount of time (usually 30 min to an hour) before I have to pick them up. I want to be productive and enjoy my time alone.

Here is the process that I go through to decide what I will work on and bring. 

My Process:

What to do –

• What does that day look like? What kinds of activities have I already done?

• What do I need more of? (exercise, quiet, adult conversation, reading time)

Where to go – 

• What is the outside weather like and what conditions do I need to consider?

• What do I need? bathrooms, drinks, a snack, quiet?

What to take-

I prefer to bring what I need. It saves me money, time, and frustration (and I get to pick what I like).

• My Essentials – Here are some things I bring in my to-go tote bag:

  • a special drink – tea, iced coffee, soda

  • a snack – something healthy and then something sweet (just for me)

  • my cactus pencil case – pencils, highlighters, my favorite pens, and some sticky notes

  • a clipboard – to create a flat surface anywhere (Also, who doesn’t leave the house without this essential?? Yes, I am a nerd.)

  • the notes app in my phone – Brian Dump out all my tasks and ideas

  • my book to read – Anne Bogel says this is the key to being a consistent reader

  • my journal – I try to journal every day.

  • comfy shoes – so I can walk if the weather allows it

  • sweater – in the Arizona desert most places use really cold A/C

All It Takes Is a Goal by Acuff (reading in my pj’s in the hotel room while Jim took the kids to the pool - Nov. 2023)

The goal for my time is to feel calm, collected, and more like myself. I choose to do something that I enjoy.

Once I have decided what to do and where to go, I follow a few rules:

#1 – Decide ahead of time.

Don’t overthink it. Action is more important than perfection.

#2 – Guard that time.

I remind myself “I have made a plan, stick to it.” Don’t let the non-urgent and demanding tasks of a busy life keep me from time to myself. I put my phone in “Focus Mode” and I don’t check texts or email. That little bit adds up. It will make a difference in my week. It will matter in a few months.

#3 – Plan for the majority, not the exception.

Don’t let one bad experience ruin it. Consistency is key. This can be a routine that brings me joy.

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my quiet spot in the library - July 2023

My chunk of time feels grounding and useful instead of scattered and wasted. I pick up the kids from the scheduled activity with a renewed calm. I can return home feeling rested instead of frantic and scattered.

Those short pieces add up. 40 minutes a week is over 2 hours in a month and 2 months = 320 minutes (over 5 hours). 

Being intentional with all of my time puts me in charge of my day, even if I am just stuck in a parking lot with a book.

Reflection Question: How do you reclaim random pieces of time?

I would love to hear your ideas!

Please share in the comments. ⬇️

📖💙- April