We all want to be our most productive selves, gym at 5:30am, meditation by 7, coffee on the porch by 8 and in the office by 9. But let’s be real, battling the rising sun and the resistance from our freshly awakened bodies is much easier said than done. Then there’s the ever-growing, out of office style professions that require a whole new approach to scheduling and accountability. So we have brought back self-made podcast host and content creator, Robbi Jan, to tap her daily hacks and management must-do’s to be your MOST productive when working for yourself. And for Robbi, it always begins the same way.

We run a tight ship.

“BALANCE — and keeping a very tight schedule. For me, balance is the key to success. I make sure to workout every morning before I start my day, then I make sure to do my skincare. These things not only make me feel good, but also make me feel a lot more productive throughout my work day.”

Making a list and checking it twice.

“I am all about creating a list of priorities, and I make sure that I time block. Time blocking changed my life and it made me WAY more productive. I make sure to never skip lunch and then I try to ‘clock-out’ at around 7:00pm EST to cook dinner and unwind.”

For those who have not yet attempted time blocking, it is a time management method used to assign each task to a set timeframe within your day rather than solely relying on a to-do list.

ROBBI JAN’S Top 3 Habits to Live By

Working out.

“It changes my mindset and makes me focus more throughout the day. Do something in the morning that motivates you. For me, working out really helps me power through my day and helps motivate me to get to my work done.”

Make a To-Do List. 

“The first thing I do when I open my computer, is create my to-do list. This keeps me on track and makes sure I don’t miss any important tasks — and it also it keeps me accountable to get things done and gives me a great sense of accomplishment once I cross them off. If that doesn’t work for you, share your goals with an accountability buddy and check in on each other.”

Take 5. 

“Take a break! I make sure I take at least 30 minutes out of my afternoon to eat lunch so I can give my brain a break and fuel my body.  Taking a break doesn’t make you less productive — it makes you more productive! Don’t get overwhelmed by the big picture. When you have big goals, it’s really easy to get overwhelmed. Instead break that end goal into smaller actionable, achievable steps.”

BONUS: Robbi’s MUST-HAVE Apps

NOTEBOOK. I have a notebook that I bring with me anywhere and everywhere. Anything goes in that notebook. 

GOOGLE CALENDAR. I use google calendar to schedule all of my meetings and events. 

APPLE NOTES. I use Apple Notes as my go-to choice for my on off  To Do’s and ideas list.  

APPLE REMINDERS. Lastly, I use Apple Reminders as my app of choice for my To Do lists and setting any important reminders throughout my day.