‘Do less and think more’: eight expert tips on boosting productivity for entrepreneurs theguardian com

Create accountability
One of the challenges for solo entrepreneurs, Navarro says, is the lack of accountability
when you work alone. “One of the ingredients for deep work practice is the ritual of
accountability,” she says. “At Flown, we set goals for that day’s session in small groups,
then work together for two hours silently, before going back to our small group to share
how much we’ve achieved.”
This idea can also be replicated with a supportive group of other business owners, says
neurophysiologist and sleep and energy expert Nerina Ramlakhan: “Surround yourself
with people who can inspire you in those moments when you lack confidence. And ask
yourself: ‘Why am I doing this? Why is this important to me?’ We’re more likely to be
productive if we’re able to connect the task with our value system.”
Take a break
It might sound counter-intuitive, but resting during the work day is one of the most
effective things business owners can do when it comes to optimising productivity. “The
ultradian rhythm occurs several times a day, roughly every 90 to 120 minutes and
determines the limits of our ability to concentrate,” explains Ramlakhan.
Many entrepreneurs are perfectionists and find it hard to switch off, but taking a five-
minute break to “eat, move, breathe, or reconnect with nature” each cycle will help to
prevent burnout. Even a change of scenery can help boost intuitive thinking – you might
work from a cafe for the afternoon, for example, instead of at home.

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Boost your bandwidth
Get your technology right and you can get more done. Speedy broadband, ample data
allowance, and reliable infrastructure are key components for a productive office, no
matter how small.
“One of the biggest frustrations in any workplace is technology,” says Riley. “Making sure
connectivity is right is crucial. It’s also a good idea to have someone you can call on (such
as a freelance IT support service) if you have any technology issues. People waste so much
time Googling how to fix something. Every time you do that, you’re losing money.”
Plan for the future
Many people wear busyness like a badge of honour, but productivity has to be for a
purpose, rather than for its own sake. “If you’re too busy doing tactical day-to-day tasks,
you’ll miss the strategic vision,” says McLachlan.
“That’s hard in a culture of busyness, because people are frightened to have time to sit and
think, because they’ll feel guilty.” Smooth out the peaks and troughs of busy work by
building a consistent pipeline of business in advance, he adds. “Otherwise you’re under
such high pressure that your performance drops.”