As we embrace the New Year, now's the time to equip yourself for success in your professional journey. Are you hoping to earn that promotion, find a new job, or finally launch your side hustle? Perhaps you simply want to enhance your daily productivity.
This week's guest is productivity expert Julie Morgenstern, who brings years of experience in organization and time management. She's authored bestselling books like 'Organizing From The Inside Out' and 'Never Check Email In The Morning.' Her expertise has helped many individuals maximize their time and productivity.
Julie acknowledges that many feel overwhelmed by time as they age, leading to a sense of reduced accomplishment. However, she emphasizes the importance of cherishing meaningful life experiences alongside professional achievements.
She shares actionable tips on maximizing your work hours and avoiding distractions from constant notifications. Julie highlights the power of to-do lists, urging the need for a centralized system to track tasks. Many waste up to 30% of their day searching for scattered to-dos.
For those struggling with productivity, Julie suggests scheduling dedicated time blocks in your calendar for tasks, even mundane ones. She advocates for batch processing emails and messages every few hours to reduce the false satisfaction of constant checking.
Julie also discusses personal strategies, noting that taking time off can enhance your leadership skills and overall effectiveness. Prioritizing self-care through sleep, exercise, and hobbies is essential for a fulfilling life.
In the mailbag segment, Jean offers advice to a listener denied a credit increase and discusses employee stock purchase programs. They also tackle the debate of buying versus leasing cars. In Thrive, Jean addresses the complexities of group birthday dinners and how to improve shared outings without straining finances.
Transcript
Julie Morgenstern: (00:00)
What unique contribution do you bring to your workplace? Every employee is a valuable investment, so it's crucial to define your role and plan your time accordingly.
Jean Chatzky: (00:31)
This podcast aims to inspire you to take charge of your finances and your time. Welcome to this exciting new year.
Julie Morgenstern: (02:16)
Thanks for having me, Jean! It's always a pleasure.
Jean Chatzky: (02:19)
As we age, time seems to slip away faster. Does this resonate with you?
Julie Morgenstern: (02:44)
It's true! As we age, we tend to savor moments more, leading to a feeling of time scarcity. This isn't inherently negative; it enriches our experiences.
Jean Chatzky: (03:51)
So how can we manage our to-do list while fostering connections?
Julie Morgenstern: (04:23)
Organizations need to adapt to support work-life balance, allowing employees to thrive personally and professionally.
Jean Chatzky: (05:21)
Many lack company support. How can individuals boost their productivity?
Julie Morgenstern: (05:40)
Begin by defining your values. Prioritize thriving in both work and personal life.
Jean Chatzky: (07:16)
To-do lists and technology play a role in productivity. How crucial are they?
Julie Morgenstern: (07:32)
To-do lists are essential. They enable prioritization and presence in tasks.
Jean Chatzky: (08:31)
Is there an ideal place to keep them?
Julie Morgenstern: (08:34)
Surprisingly, your calendar is the best spot for your to-dos. Connect tasks with specific times to ensure completion.
Jean Chatzky: (09:35)
What if others control your calendar with unplanned meetings?
Julie Morgenstern: (10:08)
It's vital to block time in your calendar for uninterrupted focus on significant tasks.
Jean Chatzky: (11:05)
What are your thoughts on email management?
Julie Morgenstern: (11:38)
Batch processing emails reduces overwhelm and increases efficiency. Set specific times for checking messages.
Jean Chatzky: (13:58)
Is checking every two hours realistic?
Julie Morgenstern: (14:06)
It varies by role, but even three-hour intervals can be effective. Communicate your schedule to colleagues.
Jean Chatzky: (14:55)
I'll try batching emails. How can we apply these strategies to our personal lives?
Julie Morgenstern: (16:36)
First, shift your mindset. Personal time enhances work performance, making you more effective.
Jean Chatzky: (18:24)
We often neglect personal goals. How can we prioritize them?
Julie Morgenstern: (18:26)
Schedule personal activities first, allowing tasks to adjust around them. The to-do list will never end.
Jean Chatzky: (20:16)
What about self-care and rest?
Julie Morgenstern: (20:20)
Rest is crucial. Make time for short breaks to recharge daily.
Jean Chatzky: (21:32)
Excellent advice! Productivity takes practice.
Julie Morgenstern: (21:54)
Stay committed to your practices, even when challenged.
Jean Chatzky: (22:28)
Thanks, Julie! Where can listeners learn more about you?
Julie Morgenstern: (22:35)
Visit my website for resources and updates on my work.
Jean Chatzky: (22:50)
Thank you for the insightful conversation, Julie.
Jean Chatzky: (23:01)
Stay tuned for more valuable discussions and insights.
Jean Chatzky: (23:14)
Happy New Year to all!
Kathryn Tuggle: (23:18)
Wishing you all a prosperous 2020!
Jean Chatzky: (23:20)
Let's start the year off strong!
Kathryn Tuggle: (23:21)
Absolutely!
Jean Chatzky: (23:22)
Did you celebrate the New Year in style?
Kathryn Tuggle: (23:23)
Yes, it was a wonderful time with family.
Jean Chatzky: (23:28)
I enjoyed a low-key gathering with friends.
Kathryn Tuggle: (23:34)
That sounds lovely.
Jean Chatzky: (23:36)
I prefer intimate settings over crowded celebrations.
Kathryn Tuggle: (23:49)
Same here!
Kathryn Tuggle: (23:50)
I believe in showing love every day, not just on holidays.
Jean Chatzky: (23:58)
Prioritizing relationships is key. Did you set any resolutions?
Kathryn Tuggle: (24:03)
I aim to be a better friend this year.
Jean Chatzky: (24:07)
You seem to be a great friend already!
Kathryn Tuggle: (24:15)
Thank you! I want to deepen my connections this year.
Jean Chatzky: (24:37)
I'll focus on being present with loved ones.
Kathryn Tuggle: (24:56)
That's a wonderful goal!
Jean Chatzky: (25:08)
Let's embrace these tips for an impactful year ahead.
Kathryn Tuggle: (25:31)
Absolutely! Wishing everyone a successful 2020!
Jean Chatzky: (25:32)
Let's make this year the best one yet!
