7 Ways Being Direct Makes You More Productive

You procrastinate. You avoid the work. You put things off.

You do almost everything except the work you are supposed to be doing.

To get more done, you need to be more direct. More direct in your intentions, your actions, and even in what you say.

What Are You Supposed to Be Doing?

You don’t get things done because you beat around the bush.

Here are just a few of the avoidance behaviors that are impacting your ability to be productive:

• You don’t say what you mean
• You don’t ask the clarifying questions
• You take on other people’s obligations without exception
• You spend time on inconsequential tasks
• You procrastinate on your biggest goals

Instead of frivolously spending your time on lesser activities, get to the point. Be direct and do the priorities you have on your list.

“Being direct means being more productive. Don’t waste time beating around the bush.”

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Here are 7 Ways to Be More Direct and Improve Your Productivity:

1. Make Decisions – Making decisions is one of the biggest privileges you have in life. The ability to choose is something no one can take away from you. Yet, many people give it up entirely. Whether it is simply deciding where to go to lunch or what career to pursue, make your own choices.
2. Ask for What You Want – No one can read your mind. Not your spouse, your boss, or anyone else. If you want something, you have to ask for it. Instead of remaining quiet and being disappointed, speak up for desires and wishes.
3. Just Say No When Necessary – Saying No has always been an important skill. Yet, in our world of continuous interruptions, it is more important than ever. You need to be able to Say No to requests when they conflict with your priorities or time.
4. Take Action Now – Sometimes you just need to take action. A first step is always better than no step. So, stop talking and start doing.
5. Don’t Wait for a Better Time – There is never going to be a perfect time. Don’t wait. The planets are not going to align. Go for it when the opportunity presents itself. Don’t wait for a “better time” that may never come.
6. Ask Questions – When you don’t know something, don’t pretend you know what you are doing. Forget pride, and ask someone who does know. Asking an expert can save you time, effort, and mistakes.
7. Stick to Your Priorities – Doing everything but your priority is another way people avoid going after what they want. Don’t waste time procrastinating on minor tasks and side tasks. Go straight for the most important items on your list.

Get the Point and Get Things Done

Be direct and get your work done.

Don’t waste your time dancing around the task at hand.

Whether at work or at home, being direct (and honest) is always the most productive path.

Question: Where do you need to be more direct in order to be more productive in your day? You can leave a comment by clicking here.