In episode 638, Leslie Shreve teaches us strategies for increasing efficiency and reducing stress during our workdays.

Leslie Shreve is a workload management and productivity expert, and the Founder and CEO of Productive Day®, which was established in 2003. Leslie is also the creator of Taskology® The Science of Getting Things Done, a unique, proprietary, and all-encompassing system for workload management and productivity that includes the management of tasks, time, email, information, and more.

Leslie works with corporate executives and professionals to show them how to increase efficiency and productivity by up to 300% in as little as 4 weeks, gain 1-2 hours back in their workday—EVERY day, spend up to 50% LESS time in their email Inbox, and reduce stress by up to 90%.

In this episode, you’ll learn how to centralize tasks using a digital system, how to create a streamlined process for email and information management and the importance of protected time blocks.

Key points discussed include:

- Centralize your tasks: Gather all your tasks from various sources (email, notes, calendar, etc.) into one central digital task list to improve planning and prioritization.

- Protect your time: Block off dedicated time in your calendar each day for focused work on tasks and email management to avoid getting distracted.

- Streamline your processes: Develop efficient systems for managing tasks, email, and information to save time and reduce stress.

- Avoid paper-based task management: Using paper to track to-dos is less effective than a digital task management system.

- Make quick decisions on emails: Process emails immediately and either take action, file, or delete them - don't let them accumulate in your inbox.

- Categorize your digital files: Organize your documents, photos, and other digital assets into a structured folder system with main categories and subcategories.

- Don't let your desktop accumulate: Build a habit of immediately filing or deleting temporary files like screenshots to prevent clutter.

- Start small and work backwards: Even small improvements to your productivity processes can make a big difference.

Connect with Leslie Shreve

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In this episode, we're going to talk about five invitations that can help shift your energy and bring more positivity into your life, especially during challenging times.

At the time of recording, I’ve been having one of those weeks where everything feels like it's falling apart. But I realized that in the midst of the chaos, I had forgotten to extend the simple invitations that have the power to shift my energy and bring in the good things I'm seeking. Whether it's inviting guidance from a higher power, support from trusted friends, or peace and rest for myself, these invitations can make all the difference. I encourage you to try extending these five invitations - they may just be the key to turning things around.

Action Plan:

1 - Invitation for guidance: Extend an invitation for guidance from your higher power (universe, God, etc.) to find clarity and solutions.

2 - Invitation for support: Reach out to a trusted friend and extend an invitation for support when you're feeling stuck or overwhelmed.

3 - Invitation for peace and rest: Start your day by extending an invitation for peace and rest to yourself, as it is essential for resetting your energy and mindset.

4 - Invitation for celebration: Extend an invitation for celebration with others, even if you don't feel like you have a specific reason to celebrate.

5 - Invitation for opportunity and favor: Extend an invitation for opportunity and favor from the universe, shifting your focus from problems to possibilities.

Get in touch with Megan if there is a specific mindset and self-care topic you'd like her to cover.

Website | Instagram

In episode 636, Megan chats to Madeline Anderson about transitioning from a 9-to-5 job to becoming your own boss and what matters more when choosing a career - pursuing your passion or making money?

Madeline is the Author of Girl Dad and Founder of Girl Dad Network. She was born and raised in Southern California and graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles with a degree in Business Economics. She believes we should all leave the world a better place than we found it, which is why she created and advocates for Girl Dad Network.

In this episode, you’ll learn how Madeline managed to balance her full-time job while building her side hustle, Girl Dad. She also shares insights into navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, including overcoming isolation and handling financial uncertainty after becoming her own boss.

Key points discussed include:

- Leverage your unique background: Your upbringing and relationships can inspire you to create meaningful work that makes a difference.

- Prioritize passion over profit: When starting a side hustle, focus on pursuing activities that truly excite and fulfill you, not just what seems lucrative.

- Harness creative inspiration: Be open to spontaneous ideas, as they can lead you to discover your true calling and purpose.

- Cultivate self-awareness: Regularly reflect on your skills, interests, and values to ensure your work aligns with who you are.

- Experiment with different paths: Trying out various roles and experiences can help you identify the best fit for your long-term career goals.

- Overcome obstacles with resilience: Challenges and setbacks, like being laid off, can often lead to unexpected breakthroughs if you approach them with an open mindset.

- Embrace the entrepreneurial journey: Understand that building a successful business takes time, effort, and the willingness to navigate both the rewards and difficulties of self-employment.

- Prioritize authenticity: In your work, strive to be true to yourself, as this will help you connect with the right audience and create meaningful impact.

- Maintain a positive mindset: View obstacles as opportunities for growth, and approach your entrepreneurial endeavors with optimism and determination.

You’ll love Episode 593: 3 Simple Ways to Successfully Blog Part-Time While Working Full-time with Kimberly Ho.

Connect with Madeline Anderson

Website | Instagram