Monday, November 5, 2012

Productivity Tools


Recently my favorite tool for getting more done is the stopwatch on my iphone. I start it every time I'm working on my manuscript and stop it any time I get distracted or sidetracked. It gives me a clear measure of how much I'm spending in my work in progress each day. It has been eye opening and keeps me accountable.

What's your favorite trick or tool for getting more done? 

27 comments:

  1. What a cool idea! I basically try to do computer stuff when my kids are in school or playing. :-)

    I didn't know you had three books out now! I'll have to keep an eye out for them.

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    1. Thanks, Jessica. The third (Canyon Cafe) came out to the Heartsong book club but hasn't shown up on any online bookstores yet. I hope it comes out soon.

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    1. I'll do anything that helps me squeeze out a few more words ;)

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  3. I sometimes use a stop watch. Great tool!

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  4. I have a timer on my phone that I use now and then, too. I also turn off my Internet when I'm writing and that acts as a timer for me, as well. :)

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  5. Getting out of my house! Oh, and #1k1h on FB.

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    1. I like getting out of the house too. With a little one, I don't get as many opportunities for that, but I try to write at Panera at least once a week.

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  6. Love the idea! I have a stopwatch on my phone. Maybe I'll give it a shot. Distraction is my #1 obstacle.

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  7. To get more done, I need to get everyone out of the house!

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    1. :) I guess that's an even better idea than us leaving the house--kick everyone else out.

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  8. When I'm jogging or doing housework, I try to run a scene in my head as though it were a movie. That way, I at least have the dialogue to put down.

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    1. Great idea. When I'm jogging, I'm focusing on surviving. ;)

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  9. Timers make me a bit tense, but I do give myself a certain amount of time to get words on a page. Have a great day!

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  10. Mine is neither a trick or a tool. It is a supportive wife that understands and supports what I do. Thank you babe. Wait, probably a bit cheesy, but it makes a huge difference when you have someone who is always in your corner.

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  11. I like that idea! I use lists and prioritize in A, B, C categories. A is must do, B is after A is completed, and C is bonus if completed. This helps me focus to get more done than if I did not have a plan.

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    1. Great idea. I think that Franklin Covey teaches something like that too.

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  12. Turning my phone completely OFF and not having email or facebook up on my computer.

    When I knock out those things, I get a LOT done. Writing-wise that is. ;)

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  13. I recently bought a Sony voice recorder! Best. Decision. Ever! I can write while I walk now!

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  14. I'm working in my office again. I'm just more productive at my desk. :)

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  15. Great idea, Julie! I've used a kitchen timer before. Amazing how setting our own "ticking time bomb" works wonders. :)

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