Productivity Power Up: Taking Your Productivity to

  In this episode of the Productivity Power Up podcast, we talk about what ergonomics is and how you can apply it to make yourself more productive. This is personal to us because Larissa works from home and is not very good about considering her body when she’s working. On the other hand, at my workplace, ergonomics is very much emphasized.   Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Productivity Power Up Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and review. Click to Review Productivity Power Up on iTunes Please note that some of the links on this page may be affiliate links and, at no additional cost to you, we will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through to the product using the link we have provided. We never recommend or provide affiliate links to products or services we do not use ourselves, and our ultimate goal is to provide helpful products and advice to you, our readers and listeners. Here’s what we mention in this episode: The Ergonomics Society International Ergonomics Association  Resources Used for this Episode Computer Workstations eTool Human factors and ergonomics The Unexpected Benefits of Good Ergonomics 10 Office Ergonomics Tips to Help You Avoid Fatigue Quote of the Week To keep the body in good health is a duty…otherwise, we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear. — Buddha   Question: Are you mindful of your body while you work? Do you apply best practices of ergonomics? You can leave a comment by clicking here. Don’t miss a single episode of Productivity Power Up! Subscribe today: Subscribe on iTunes Subscribe on Stitcher Thanks for listening! Vickie and Larissa The post PPU 060: Ergonomics and Productivity appeared first on Productivity Power Up.

  In this episode of the Productivity Power Up podcast, we talk more about email management, specifically the concept of “inbox zero” and why I am such a proponent of it. I recently read a few articles that outlined some pretty good arguments about how it wasn’t such a great thing, but after reading (with an open mind of course!), I still come down on the side of inbox zero. In this episode, I’m going to tell you why.   Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Productivity Power Up Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and review. Click to Review Productivity Power Up on iTunes Please note that some of the links on this page may be affiliate links and, at no additional cost to you, we will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through to the product using the link we have provided. We never recommend or provide affiliate links to products or services we do not use ourselves, and our ultimate goal is to provide helpful products and advice to you, our readers and listeners. Here’s what we mention in this episode: Resources Used for this Episode How to achieve inbox zero like a boss (PPU Episode 5) The user’s guide to Inbox Zero and an ordered financial life In two weeks, I went from 23,768 e-mails in my inbox to zero. Here’s how. Quote of the Week Be master of your petty annoyances and conserve your energies for the big, worthwhile things. It isn’t the mountain ahead that wears you out – it’s the grain of sand in your shoe. — Robert Service   Question: What are your thoughts on inbox zero? Are you a  believer and practitioner, a believer who wishes they were a practitioner or do you not subscribe to this at all. You can leave a comment by clicking here. Don’t miss a single episode of Productivity Power Up! Subscribe today: Subscribe on iTunes Subscribe on Stitcher Thanks for listening! Vickie and Larissa The post PPU 059: In Defense of Inbox Zero appeared first on Productivity Power Up.

  Fidget toys are things we play with when we’re sitting in a meeting or concentrating on a tough problem, or overall just feeling a bit fidgety. Personally, my desk looks a little like a toy store stocked with putty, legos, colored rocks, and stress balls galore. I use these as a way to keep my mind engaged, particularly when I don’t have time to take breaks or get up and move around much. This episode of the Productivity Power Up podcast is all about fidget toys: why we fidget, the “science” behind fidget toys and productivity, and ideas for which toys lend themselves particularly well to fidgeting.   Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Productivity Power Up Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and review. Click to Review Productivity Power Up on iTunes Please note that some of the links on this page may be affiliate links and, at no additional cost to you, we will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through to the product using the link we have provided. We never recommend or provide affiliate links to products or services we do not use ourselves, and our ultimate goal is to provide helpful products and advice to you, our readers and listeners. Here’s what we mention in this episode:  Fidget to Focus: Outwit Your Boredom: Sensory Strategies for Living with ADD Resources Used for this Episode Fidget Widgets Fidget to Focus The Science Of Why We Fidget While We Work Get Creative at Your Desk With a Little Playtime Quote of the Week We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing. — George Bernard Shaw   Question: Do you use fidget toys and if so, what are some of your favorites? You can leave a comment by clicking here. Don’t miss a single episode of Productivity Power Up! Subscribe today: Subscribe on iTunes Subscribe on Stitcher Thanks for listening! Vickie and Larissa The post PPU 058: Fidget Toys appeared first on Productivity Power Up.

  In this episode of the Productivity Power Up podcast, we discuss the veracity of the old adage that says that if you want something to get done, give it to a busy person. In short, are busy people more productive?   Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Productivity Power Up Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and review. Click to Review Productivity Power Up on iTunes Please note that some of the links on this page may be affiliate links and, at no additional cost to you, we will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through to the product using the link we have provided. We never recommend or provide affiliate links to products or services we do not use ourselves, and our ultimate goal is to provide helpful products and advice to you, our readers and listeners. Here’s what we mention in this episode: Eisenhower Matrix (see Productivity Power Up podcast episode 055 to learn more) e.ggtimer.com Tomato Timer Resources Used for this Episode Why I’m most effective when I’m swamped Quit Social Media. Your Career May Depend on It. Quote of the Week I am always busy, which is perhaps the chief reason why I am always well. — Elizabeth Cady Stanton, American suffragist, social activist, abolitionist, and leading figure of the early women’s rights movement.(1815-1902)   Question: Do you find  yourself to be more productive when you are busy? You can leave a comment by clicking here. Don’t miss a single episode of Productivity Power Up! Subscribe today: Subscribe on iTunes Subscribe on Stitcher Thanks for listening! Vickie and Larissa The post PPU 057: Are Busy People More Productive? appeared first on Productivity Power Up.

  In this episode of the Productivity Power Up podcast we talk about something that all of us are guilty of from time to time (some more than others): being late. We share why some people tend to be perpetually running behind and give you some tips for how to stop being late.   Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Productivity Power Up Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and review. Click to Review Productivity Power Up on iTunes Please note that some of the links on this page may be affiliate links and, at no additional cost to you, we will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through to the product using the link we have provided. We never recommend or provide affiliate links to products or services we do not use ourselves, and our ultimate goal is to provide helpful products and advice to you, our readers and listeners. Here’s what we mention in this episode: Resources Used for this Episode The Surprising Secret to Being on Time Never Want to Be Late Again? Stop Rushing Always Late? How To Be On Time — For Real Quote of the Week I think we consider too much the good luck of the early bird and not enough the bad luck of the early worm. — Franklin D. Roosevelt   Question: Are you always running late? Do you have any strategies to keep yourself on time? You can leave a comment by clicking here. Don’t miss a single episode of Productivity Power Up! Subscribe today: Subscribe on iTunes Subscribe on Stitcher Thanks for listening! Vickie and Larissa The post PPU 056: How to Stop Being Late appeared first on Productivity Power Up.

  In this episode of the Productivity Power Up podcast, we discuss a simple and yet powerful task management tool, “The Eisenhower Matrix” or, “Eisenhower Box,” which was developed by former president Dwight D. Eisenhower.   Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Productivity Power Up Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and review. Click to Review Productivity Power Up on iTunes Please note that some of the links on this page may be affiliate links and, at no additional cost to you, we will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through to the product using the link we have provided. We never recommend or provide affiliate links to products or services we do not use ourselves, and our ultimate goal is to provide helpful products and advice to you, our readers and listeners. Here’s what we mention in this episode: Image credit: jamesclear.com/eisenhower-box Resources Used for this Episode The Eisenhower Matrix Productivity Tool – As A Trello Board Use the ‘Eisenhower Box’ to Stop Wasting Time and Be More Productive The Eisenhower Decision Matrix: How to Distinguish Between Urgent and Important Tasks and Make Real Progress in Your Life Quote of the Week What is important is seldom urgent and what is urgent is seldom important. — Dwight Eisenhower   Question: How do you prioritize your work? Do you use the Eisenhower Matrix or something similar? You can leave a comment by clicking here. Don’t miss a single episode of Productivity Power Up! Subscribe today: Subscribe on iTunes Subscribe on Stitcher Thanks for listening! Vickie and Larissa The post PPU 055: Using the Eisenhower Matrix to Increase Productivity appeared first on Productivity Power Up.

  In this episode of the Productivity Power Up podcast, we discuss unproductive meetings. We’re going to give you some telltale signs that you might be headed into an unproductive meeting and give you some strategies for getting out.   Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Productivity Power Up Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and review. Click to Review Productivity Power Up on iTunes Please note that some of the links on this page may be affiliate links and, at no additional cost to you, we will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through to the product using the link we have provided. We never recommend or provide affiliate links to products or services we do not use ourselves, and our ultimate goal is to provide helpful products and advice to you, our readers and listeners. Here’s what we mention in this episode: Resources Used for this Episode 10 Easy Ways to Spot Unnecessary Meetings 10 Ways To Spot Inefficient Meetings (Before They Happen) Quote of the Week We will continue to have lots of meetings until we can determine why no work is getting done. –Meme on the internet   Question: Do you find yourself attending a large amount of unproductive meetings and if so, have you tried any strategies for winning your time back? You can leave a comment by clicking here. Don’t miss a single episode of Productivity Power Up! Subscribe today: Subscribe on iTunes Subscribe on Stitcher Thanks for listening! Vickie and Larissa The post PPU 054: How to Handle Unproductive Meetings appeared first on Productivity Power Up.

  In this episode of the Productivity Power Up podcast, we talk about how the novelty effect can impact your productivity. I was inspired to talk about this topic because I am very easily bored, so much so that I switch productivity tools on a regular basis just to keep things fresh. Although I usually feel a little bit bad about doing this because it seems as if I’m wasting time, I always end up feeling refreshed and even more inspired to get stuff done after every “move.” In order to understand this behavior and the resulting productivity boost, I researched the effect that novelty can have on productivity. We share my findings here, and give you some tips for introducing novelty into your day.   Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Productivity Power Up Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and review. Click to Review Productivity Power Up on iTunes Please note that some of the links on this page may be affiliate links and, at no additional cost to you, we will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through to the product using the link we have provided. We never recommend or provide affiliate links to products or services we do not use ourselves, and our ultimate goal is to provide helpful products and advice to you, our readers and listeners. Here’s what we mention in this episode: New: Understanding Our Need for Novelty and Change by Winifred Gallagher Scrivener Pomodoro – iPhone app Resources Used for this Episode One Story Inc. What’s New? Exuberance for Novelty Has Benefits Valbrains: Novelty for Productivity & Creativity! How to Make Your Everyday Life Feel More Like Vacation Why Getting New Things Makes Us Feel So Good: Novelty and the Brain Quote of the Week See any detour as an opportunity to experience new things. — H. Jackson Brown, Jr. (Author of Life’s Little Instruction Book)   Question: What are some of your favorite ways to introduce novelty into your days? You can leave a comment by clicking here. Don’t miss a single episode of Productivity Power Up! Subscribe today: Subscribe on iTunes Subscribe on Stitcher Thanks for listening! Vickie and Larissa The post PPU 053: The Novelty Effect on Productivity appeared first on Productivity Power Up.

  In today’s episode of the Productivity Power Up podcast, we talk about napping and productivity. More specifically, we share some findings about how napping impacts your ability to get things done. We also share the anatomy of the ideal power nap, along with some tips for trying to get some shut-eye during the day.   Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Productivity Power Up Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and review. Click to Review Productivity Power Up on iTunes Please note that some of the links on this page may be affiliate links and, at no additional cost to you, we will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through to the product using the link we have provided. We never recommend or provide affiliate links to products or services we do not use ourselves, and our ultimate goal is to provide helpful products and advice to you, our readers and listeners. Resources Used for this Episode The Scientific Power of Naps How To Power Nap For All-Day Energy Can Napping at Work Boost Productivity? Why You Should Take a 10-Minute Nap Every Day The Science Behind Why Power Naps Help You Stay Productive and Creative Quote of the Week When you can’t figure out what to do, it’s time for a nap. — Mason Cooley was an American aphorist known for his witty aphorisms. One of these such aphorisms Cooley developed was “The time I kill is killing me.” He was professor emeritus of French, speech and world literature at the College of Staten Island.   Question: Do you take power naps? If so, what are some of the benefits you have experienced? You can leave a comment by clicking here. Don’t miss a single episode of Productivity Power Up! Subscribe today: Subscribe on iTunes Subscribe on Stitcher Thanks for listening! Vickie and Larissa The post PPU 052: Can Napping Increase Productivity? appeared first on Productivity Power Up.

  In this episode of the Productivity Power Up podcast, we’re going to discuss how a regular meditation practice can help boost your productivity. We’ll also share some tips for implementing a meditation practice into your life.   Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Productivity Power Up Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and review. Click to Review Productivity Power Up on iTunes Please note that some of the links on this page may be affiliate links and, at no additional cost to you, we will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through to the product using the link we have provided. We never recommend or provide affiliate links to products or services we do not use ourselves, and our ultimate goal is to provide helpful products and advice to you, our readers and listeners. Here’s what we mention in this episode: Resources Used for this Episode Get Some Headspace Guide: Everything you need to start meditating How Meditation Can Help to Improve Your Productivity Meditation Can Improve Your Memory, Focus, and Productivity at Work The Effects of Mindfulness Meditation Training on Multitasking in a High-Stress Information Environment Quote of the Week Your attention is one of the rarest commodities you have; slowing down can actually help you accomplish more; the more intentions you set, the more you’ll get done; meditation can help you overcome huge mental hurdles; the world won’t stop when you step back from your work; and there’s more to your work than productivity. — Chris Bailey, from A Life of Productivity website   Question: Do you have a regular meditation practice? If so, what benefits have you realized as a result? You can leave a comment by clicking here. Don’t miss a single episode of Productivity Power Up! Subscribe today: Subscribe on iTunes Subscribe on Stitcher Thanks for listening! Vickie and Larissa The post PPU 051: How a Meditation Practice Can Boost Your Productivity appeared first on Productivity Power Up.

  In this episode of the Productivity Power Up podcast, we discuss FOMO, Fear of Missing Out. This is a term I only recently became aware of, but it’s something that’s impacted me for a while (and I’m sure it’s affected you in some ways as well). We define FOMO, give you some ways to determine if it’s affecting you, and talk about some ways to overcome any negative impacts to your productivity.   Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Productivity Power Up Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and review. Click to Review Productivity Power Up on iTunes Please note that some of the links on this page may be affiliate links and, at no additional cost to you, we will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through to the product using the link we have provided. We never recommend or provide affiliate links to products or services we do not use ourselves, and our ultimate goal is to provide helpful products and advice to you, our readers and listeners. Here’s what we mention in this episode: Resources Used for this Episode FOMO and Productivity Why Summer Makes Us Lazy How to Destroy FOMO for Good Quote of the Week I wake up every day planning to be productive and then a voice in my head says, “Ha ha, good one!” and we laugh and take a nap. — Listener: Gail Martin submitted   Question: Are you affected by FOMO and if so how? What have you done to try and overcome this? You can leave a comment by clicking here. Don’t miss a single episode of Productivity Power Up! Subscribe today: Subscribe on iTunes Subscribe on Stitcher Thanks for listening! Vickie and Larissa The post PPU 050: How FOMO Can Affect Your Productivity appeared first on Productivity Power Up.

  In this episode of the Productivity Power Up podcast, we discuss Instapaper, an eReader and article curation tool that can help boost your productivity. I bought this application about two months ago and wanted to give it a whirl before I decided whether it was “share worthy.” Spoiler alert: it is!   Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Productivity Power Up Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and review. Click to Review Productivity Power Up on iTunes Please note that some of the links on this page may be affiliate links and, at no additional cost to you, we will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through to the product using the link we have provided. We never recommend or provide affiliate links to products or services we do not use ourselves, and our ultimate goal is to provide helpful products and advice to you, our readers and listeners. Here’s what we mention in this episode: Instapaper Momentum Resources Used for this Episode The expert’s guide to Instapaper Why Instapaper & Read It Later Apps Can Boost Your Productivity Quote of the Week Always read something that will make you look good if you die in the middle of reading it. — PJ O’Rourke is an American political satirist and journalist.   Question: Do you use any “read it later” apps? You can leave a comment by clicking here. Don’t miss a single episode of Productivity Power Up! Subscribe today: Subscribe on iTunes Subscribe on Stitcher Thanks for listening! Vickie and Larissa The post PPU 049: How Using Instapaper Can Boost Your Productivity appeared first on Productivity Power Up.

  Procrastination is something that plagues even the most successful among us. Successful people, however, know how to get themselves moving even on tasks they may not want to do. One technique I’ve used in the past to get myself moving on those tasks is to gamify them . In this episode of the Productivity Power Up podcast, we share some ways you can use games to help spur you forward towards your goals. We discuss some things to look for in productivity gaming apps, as well as offer tips for creating your own game on paper.   Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Productivity Power Up Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and review. Click to Review Productivity Power Up on iTunes Please note that some of the links on this page may be affiliate links and, at no additional cost to you, we will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through to the product using the link we have provided. We never recommend or provide affiliate links to products or services we do not use ourselves, and our ultimate goal is to provide helpful products and advice to you, our readers and listeners. Here’s what we mention in this episode: Level Up Your Life Nerd Fitness Pokemon Go – iPhone | Android Fitbit Habitica app from Habit RPG – iPhone | Android Chore Wars OmniFocus – iPhone 30/30 – iPhone e.ggtimer.com gamification.co   Resources Used for this Episode How to Gamify Your Productivity 10 Ways to Gamify Your Life Today Top Ten Gamified Productivity Apps that will Boost your Life Quote of the Week In every job that must be done, there is an element of fun. You find the fun, and – SNAP – the job’s a game! — Mary Poppins   Question: Do you use games to help you accomplish your goals? You can leave a comment by clicking here. Don’t miss a single episode of Productivity Power Up! Subscribe today: Subscribe on iTunes Subscribe on Stitcher Thanks for listening! Vickie and Larissa The post PPU 048: How to Gamify Your Day for Maximum Productivity appeared first on Productivity Power Up.

  In this episode of the Productivity Power Up podcast, we discuss how your self-esteem impacts your productivity and share 5 ways you can lift yourself up when you’re feeling down.   Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Productivity Power Up Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and review. Click to Review Productivity Power Up on iTunes Please note that some of the links on this page may be affiliate links and, at no additional cost to you, we will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through to the product using the link we have provided. We never recommend or provide affiliate links to products or services we do not use ourselves, and our ultimate goal is to provide helpful products and advice to you, our readers and listeners. Here’s what we mention in this episode: Strengths Finder 2.0 Resources Used for this Episode Is Low Self-Esteem Affecting Your Productivity? Increasing Self-Esteem to Increase Productivity How Does High Self-Esteem Increase Productivity? Quote of the Week Do you ever just let yourself float? — Caroline Dooner’s (The Fuck It Diet) Mom   Question: Do you get down on yourself about your productivity and ability to get things done? You can leave a comment by clicking here. Don’t miss a single episode of Productivity Power Up! Subscribe today: Subscribe on iTunes Subscribe on Stitcher Thanks for listening! Vickie and Larissa The post PPU 047: Productivity and Self-Esteem appeared first on Productivity Power Up.

In this episode of the Productivity Power Up podcast, we discuss keeping a notebook, which is a different practice from just journaling or keeping a diary. We explain what keeping a notebook means and share some benefits of incorporating this practice into your life.   Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Productivity Power Up Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and review. Click to Review Productivity Power Up on iTunes Please note that some of the links on this page may be affiliate links and, at no additional cost to you, we will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through to the product using the link we have provided. We never recommend or provide affiliate links to products or services we do not use ourselves, and our ultimate goal is to provide helpful products and advice to you, our readers and listeners. Here’s what we mention in this episode: OmniFocus Day One Journal Product Links: Moleskine Evernote Smart Notebook, Large, Squared, Black, Hard Cover Moleskine Evernote Journal with Smart Stickers, Large, (Set of 2), Ruled, Kraft Brown, Soft Cover Resources Used for this Episode On Keeping a Notebook, Part 1 Joan Didion on Keeping a Notebook On Keeping a Notebook in the Digital Age How to Use a Simple Pocket Notebook to Improve Your Life Quote of the Week I think we are well advised to keep on nodding terms with the people we used to be, whether we find them attractive company or not. Otherwise they turn up unannounced and surprise us, come hammering on the mind’s door at 4 a.m. of a bad night and demand to know who deserted them, who betrayed them, who is going to make amends. We forget all too soon the things we thought we could never forget. We forget the loves and the betrayals alike, forget what we whispered and what we screamed, forget who we were. — Joan Didion   Question: Do you keep a notebook? If so, what benefits have you realized from keeping this practice? You can leave a comment by clicking here. Don’t miss a single episode of Productivity Power Up! Subscribe today: Subscribe on iTunes Subscribe on Stitcher Thanks for listening! Vickie and Larissa The post PPU 046: Keeping a Notebook appeared first on Productivity Power Up.

  In this episode of the Productivity Power Up podcast, we’ll be giving you some ideas for how to handle the daily distractions of life, like a BOSS. You know, I’m not a young gal anymore and I remember a time when there was no internet, no cellphones, and very limited TV. In this day and age, we can get what we want when we want it pretty quickly, and things are constantly being pushed on us. With all of these distractions, how are you supposed to get your stuff done? Today we’ll to give you some ideas for doing just that. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Productivity Power Up Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and review. Click to Review Productivity Power Up on iTunes Please note that some of the links on this page may be affiliate links and, at no additional cost to you, we will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through to the product using the link we have provided. We never recommend or provide affiliate links to products or services we do not use ourselves, and our ultimate goal is to provide helpful products and advice to you, our readers and listeners. Here’s what we mention in this episode: Tomato Timer Focus @ Will Spotify Resources Used for this Episode 30/30 Dealing with Distractions Smart Technology To Break Bad Habits 10 Online Tools for Better Attention & Focus Quote of the Week The most successful person is the average person, focused. — Unknown   Question: What are some of your distractions and how do you manage them if you do. Do you use certain apps or have a good tip for how you keep yourself focused? You can leave a comment by clicking here. Don’t miss a single episode of Productivity Power Up! Subscribe today: Subscribe on iTunes Subscribe on Stitcher Thanks for listening! Vickie and Larissa The post PPU 045: How to Manage Distractions Like a Boss appeared first on Productivity Power Up.

  In this episode of the Productivity Power Up Podcast, we discuss why I love taking notes, and give you some tips to help you make the most of your notes. And yes, I believe that notes can even make you more productive! I’m also going to share a bit about my love of something called Sketch Notes.   Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Productivity Power Up Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and review. Click to Review Productivity Power Up on iTunes Please note that some of the links on this page may be affiliate links and, at no additional cost to you, we will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through to the product using the link we have provided. We never recommend or provide affiliate links to products or services we do not use ourselves, and our ultimate goal is to provide helpful products and advice to you, our readers and listeners.   Here’s what we mention in this episode: Resources Used for this Episode The Most Important Thing You’re Not Doing at Work (and How to Get Started) How to Take Notes Like an Alpha-Geek (Plus: My $2,600 Date + Challenge) 7 Reasons Why Taking Notes Makes You More Productive A Learning Secret: Don’t Take Notes with a Laptop   Quote of the Week Focus on being productive instead of busy. — Tim Ferriss   Question: What is your favorite way to take notes? Do you take notes by hand or digitally? If by hand, do you use words only or do you make them fun in some way (ex. Drawing, doodling) You can leave a comment by clicking here. Don’t miss a single episode of Productivity Power Up! Subscribe today: Subscribe on iTunes Subscribe on Stitcher Thanks for listening! Vickie and Larissa The post PPU 044: Productive Notetaking appeared first on Productivity Power Up.

  In today’s episode of the Productivity Power Up podcast, we share 8 things you can do to help keep you sane when life throws you a curve ball. On May 13, I was involved in a pretty bad car accident. My car was totaled and I sustained a few injuries (not too serious) that I’m still having to deal with. As you can imagine, we are now having to deal with insurance companies, my job, a new puppy, and the loss of my vehicle all at the same time. While I consider myself to be an organized and productive person, these types of curve balls can test anyone. Today I’m going to give you 8 things you can do to help you manage through the “curve balls” of your life.   Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Productivity Power Up Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and review. Click to Review Productivity Power Up on iTunes Please note that some of the links on this page may be affiliate links and, at no additional cost to you, we will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through to the product using the link we have provided. We never recommend or provide affiliate links to products or services we do not use ourselves, and our ultimate goal is to provide helpful products and advice to you, our readers and listeners.   Here’s what we mention in this episode: Resources Used for this Episode 12 Ways To Stay Sane and Productive When Life Gets Crazy 15 Simple Ways To Take Care Of Yourself When Life Gets Crazy Quote of the Week You are the sky. Everything else – it’s just the weather. — Pema Chodron (pronounced Payma Show-drun)   Question: What is your favorite tip for handling the curveballs of life? You can leave a comment by clicking here. Don’t miss a single episode of Productivity Power Up! Subscribe today: Subscribe on iTunes Subscribe on Stitcher Thanks for listening! Vickie and Larissa The post PPU 043: 8 Ways to Stay Sane When Life Throws You a Curve Ball appeared first on Productivity Power Up.

  In today’s episode of the podcast, we discuss what I have heard described as the “yin” to the “yang” of to-do lists. While I believe in to-do lists I definitely understand that, at times, they can be overwhelming in the sense that they are never really “done”. This can lead to lost motivation and feeling like there’s really no point. Keeping a “done” list is an easy way to combat this feeling. We’re also going to share a few simple tips for starting your own, plus some ways to make the most out of your “done” list.   Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Productivity Power Up Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and review. Click to Review Productivity Power Up on iTunes Please note that some of the links on this page may be affiliate links and, at no additional cost to you, we will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through to the product using the link we have provided. We never recommend or provide affiliate links to products or services we do not use ourselves, and our ultimate goal is to provide helpful products and advice to you, our readers and listeners.   Here’s what we mention in this episode: Resources Used for this Episode The Power of the Done List Trade Your To-Do List for a Done List Why To-Do Lists Don’t Work and Done Lists Do The Art of the Done List: Harnessing the Power of Progress Here’s What You Should Do Instead Of Writing A To-Do List Track Every Small Progress for a Successful “Done List” Work Smarter: Why You Should Add a ‘Done List’ to Your To-Do List Use a “Done List” to Keep Yourself Feeling Efficient and Motivated Quote of the Week Nothing is so fatiguing as the eternal hanging on of an uncompleted task. — William James   Question: Do you keep a “done” list? You can leave a comment by clicking here. Don’t miss a single episode of Productivity Power Up! Subscribe today: Subscribe on iTunes Subscribe on Stitcher Thanks for listening! Vickie and Larissa The post VZ 042: The “Done” list appeared first on Productivity Power Up.

  In this episode of the Productivity Power Up Podcast, I define what I mean by the term reference manager, and then we discuss some things to consider when deciding what type of system(s) to use. Chances are, you already have one whether you know it or not!   Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Productivity Power Up Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and review. Click to Review Productivity Power Up on iTunes Please note that some of the links on this page may be affiliate links and, at no additional cost to you, we will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through to the product using the link we have provided. We never recommend or provide affiliate links to products or services we do not use ourselves, and our ultimate goal is to provide helpful products and advice to you, our readers and listeners.   Here’s what we mention in this episode: Resources Used for this Episode Evernote vs OneNote: The Battle for Note Taking Domination 10 Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Note-Taking App The Top 8 Free Online File Storage Sites OneDrive, Dropbox, Google Drive and Box: Which cloud storage service is right for you? Quote of the Week Life is too complicated not to be orderly. — Martha Stewart   Question: What do you currently use as your reference manager and how is it working for you? What was the most important feature you considered when you selected your reference manager? You can leave a comment by clicking here. Don’t miss a single episode of Productivity Power Up! Subscribe today: Subscribe on iTunes Subscribe on Stitcher Thanks for listening! Vickie and Larissa The post PPU 041: How to Select the Right Reference Manager for You appeared first on Productivity Power Up.