Simplifying processes I

To be truly productive, you must learn to simplify processes and reduce the number of tasks and items on your to-do list.

One of the key questions that productive people ask is "why?" When you ask yourself why you are doing something, you can dig deeper into the task and find ways to simplify it and make it more efficient. This question can help you identify what really matters and what you can eliminate to simplify the process.

For example, in my core business, I often receive requests for two-day training workshops, with each executive working individually. Instead of sending a written proposal, I ask why they would want the participants removed from the room and worked separately. If they can't perform in front of their own colleagues, how are they going to perform live in front of a television audience? Also, why would they want to see a written proposal for a workshop on how to speak to the media? Isn't it more important to see how the trainers speak live?

Asking these questions allows me to deliver more effective workshops and reduce time and costs for me and my clients. Also, sending videos instead of written proposals has saved me time and allowed me to get more clients.

Another way productive people simplify their lives is by reducing the number of decisions they have to make each day. Some successful leaders, like Mark Zuckerberg and Steve Jobs, have simplified their clothing and wear the same outfit every day to reduce the time they spend thinking about their appearance. While you don't have to do the same, you should look for ways to reduce the decisions you have to make each day. You can prepare your clothes and meals in advance, for example, or establish a daily routine that allows you to minimize the decisions you have to make.

Another way to simplify your life is to reduce the number of tasks you have to do. You can start by examining everything you do on a yearly, monthly, weekly and daily basis and look for ways to simplify each task. Perhaps you can eliminate some tasks altogether or automate them, or maybe you can group similar tasks together to make them more efficient. By simplifying your tasks, you can reduce stress and work overload, which will allow you to be more productive overall.