Anti-Hustle Fall: Tips for Working Intentionally

Welcome to my new fall series! With the changing of seasons, (especially coming into fall), I’m often tempted to say yes to a lot of new things, and to too many things if I’m honest.

I’m going to spend the next couple of weeks on an “anti-hustle” fall series. It’s a reminder that as we prepare ourselves, our homes, and our schedules for fall, we don’t have to give in to the pressure to get everything done. Instead, we can choose to simplify our schedule and home to focus on what’s most important.

This week’s blog will provide tips for working more intentionally. It is primarily written for remote or office-based work, but I think some of the tips could be used throughout different types of industries, and anyone looking to get some work done.

I’ve just recently gone back to work after my maternity leave and it’s had me thinking about how to work more efficiently.

Here are a few of my tips:

1. Single-Task

It’s WAY too easy these days to be extremely distracted while we’re trying to get something done. Between texting, inter-office messaging tools, emails, etc., there can be a constant flow of communication coming at us!

My advice is to single-task.

Mute any notifications you’re able to. Try to have as few tabs open as possible, as few tools out as possible, and get rid of anything else that isn’t absolutely essential for completing the current task you’re working on.

2. Set Times to Check Emails

If you’re able, set specific times during the day to check and respond to emails and messages. Not only does this help with single-tasking, but it allows you to have greater peace of mind because you’ve offloaded the need to remember to do this by setting it at a particular time.

If you’re worried you might forget, set a reminder with an alert on your phone or computer.

3. Make a List at the End of Your Workday

This is my work-version homage to the brain dump. Often, I don’t always finish all the little tasks I need to do during the day. However, I don’t want to waste valuable mental energy making sure I don’t forget about the tasks overnight. Instead, keep a notepad or notebook or digital list where you write down anything left over at the end of your day.

The next morning, make sure you review this list to ensure these tasks are forgotten.

4. Set your Big 3

I’ve mentioned this in a previous blog about journalling, but it’s so important to not overdo it when setting goals. We actually get more done at a higher quality when we choose to focus on less.

Each morning, write down the 3 biggest goals you have for the day. They should ideally be the 3 things that will have the largest impact in reaching any deadlines or financial goals you are working toward.

By focusing on just 3 things, you can ensure that the work you do will have a measurable impact.

5. Take Breaks (The Right Way)

Part of working efficiently also means knowing when to take breaks.

High-productivity windows only last 60-90 minutes, so you should plan to take a short 5-10 minute break after that period of time.

You should also take the right kind of break. Get up, walk around, and sit around just scrolling on your phone—looking at a screen is probably the worst way to give your brain and body the rest they need before getting back to work.

I love stepping outside if I’m able for a break. There’s something about getting fresh air and being in nature that refocuses my perspective.

What are some of your best tips for working or getting things done?