Day-to-day life gets overwhelming sometimes and adding a side hustle to that might leave you wanting to work extra hours every day. But with the right strategies, you can juggle your responsibilities without getting burned.
11 Productivity Hacks for Side Hustlers
1. Set Clear Goals
Establish specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals for your side hustle. Prioritize time-sensitive tasks and plan ahead for a week instead of day-to-day.
2. Use Time Blocking
Allocate specific blocks of time for different tasks throughout your day. Read the book Atomic Habits on how you can include mundane tasks into your routine until it becomes a habit. Start small by dedicating 15–30 minutes every day or week to your side hustle and build the habit over time.
3. Prioritize High-Impact Tasks
Activities that drive growth, such as marketing, networking, or product development, are high impact tasks. Do not get bogged down by minor tasks, and instead set an hour or two for them every couple weeks.
4. Use Technology Tools
Apps like Trello for project management, Grammarly for writing, and Canva for design can save time and improve efficiency. If your side hustle needs a website, you can automate many processes, including inventory management, customer service using chatbots, and service booking.
5. Outsource When Possible
Delegate tasks that are not within your core skill set. Platforms like Fiverr and Upwork offer freelance services for tasks like graphic design, content writing, and administrative work, freeing up your time for more strategic activities.
6. Batch Similar Tasks
Group similar tasks together to minimize context switching, which can be time-consuming. For example, designate one day a week for content creation and another for administrative tasks. It helps maintain focus and improve productivity.
7. Limit Use of Social Media
Social media, especially video platforms, can be quite addictive. Limit personal use to avoid distractions during work hours. When using them for your side hustle’s marketing and brand building, schedule posts using tools, so you aren’t distracted.
8. Create a Dedicated Workspace
A dedicated workspace, even if it’s a small corner, helps create a work environment that promotes focus and reduces distractions. Eventually, you’ll train your mind to feel most productive in that spot.
9. Set Boundaries
Communicate your working hours to family and friends to minimize interruptions. Setting clear boundaries is not only good for your professional goals but also helps with a more balanced personal life.
10. Stay Organized
Keep your workspace and digital files organized. Use cloud storage solutions like Google Drive or Dropbox to keep important documents accessible and well-organized. An organized space saves time and reduces stress, as you know exactly where you’ll find the files.
11. Practice Self-Care
Physical and mental health contribute to long-term productivity. Incorporate regular breaks, exercise, and sufficient sleep of 7-9 hours into your routine. Stay healthy and stay away from foods that make you feel lethargic. A healthy body and mind can sustain the energy and motivation needed for your side hustle.
Incorporate these productivity hacks into your routine one by one. For more side hustle tips, follow Carrie’s Courses.
