How to lift your game and actually increase productivity
I read an article today where the government spoke about falling productivity and diminishing profits and the correlation between profits and wages. Specifically, to quote the article, the need is to, “Combat sluggish labour productivity which is driving disappointing wage growth, would it lead to increased pay and profits.”
I would pose this question too, ‘Are there any specific strategies that will help increase productivity?’
According to Mr Michael Brennan, Chair of the Productivity Commission, the answer is a resounding yes. (The Australian Newspaper, front page, 17th February.)
I think it’s a given that when we increase productivity it usually leads to greater profits. However, I wish to address the nuts and bolts of how exactly to achieve this. Furthermore, I believe the key is to look at productivity at an individual level. Together, individuals are responsible for their own productivity and the sum of the parts creates the overall results of an organisation.
I am fortunate to witness the positive results with my clients, in relation to their business performance and productivity. Clients, who range from small and medium business owners to CEOs of large companies. So, if you are in business or own a business, you will benefit from reading this.
What are the best ways to ensure we maintain and increase productivity?
When I take on a new client, we first take a close look at their current situation. What is working well and specifically what’s NOT working. It so happens, it is nearly always the client’s MINDSET that is sluggish, often identifiable from their language; the words they use and their body language. Furthermore, they often admit to having destructive habits such as procrastination, distraction, putting off important tasks or generally feeling unmotivated.
Consequently, what is required is a sprinkling of discipline, a strong desire to succeed, a stern word with self and a big dose of intrinsic motivation. Helping people do the things they know they should but don’t do, is paramount. This is when we start to see the beginnings of transformational results. It is often simple and proven strategies, techniques from neuroscience that are key. Moreover, navigating around our brain’s bias to keep us safe and comfortable at all costs is important for increasing productivity. And the key to creating an awesome mindset.
Why are you in business?
- Essentially, we refocus on the client’s inspiration as to WHY they started their business in the first instance. We re-establish exactly what they want from their business.
- Then we drill down to discover their compelling WHY.
- Next, it’s vital to ensure the why and the goal aligns with their values. Frequently we have to do quite a bit of work on values. Generally, we think we ‘know’ them but in reality, we don’t ‘own’ them or live accordingly to what is really important.
- Then, comes FOCUS. We have two types of focus and motivation on our focus, so we must ensure our clients are focused on what they want and they maintain focus.
Far too often during the day, we get distracted which diminishes productivity
- Too often people get distracted far too frequently during the day. (Our attention span is around eight seconds which is less than a goldfish!) Tools to keep focused are essential for every person who contributes to working in a business, at every level.
- Then we create better HABITS. Ones that help people stay focused and avoid getting distracted. Quite often these are simple habits we all ‘know’ we should do but don’t. Habits such as planning, scheduling tasks, re-setting between tasks and timing tasks. Identifying keystone habits that drive other ones is also helpful.
- Finally, we create some small non-negotiable ACTION steps and set a tracking system and accountability structure. Plus rewards along the way and celebrations. Both of these help us stay on track and help us feel better. Our brains send us a short of serotonin when we celebrate and acknowledge our wins.
Self-awareness and a desire for continual improvement is essential to increase productivity
While the above is simple, the truth is many people do not have the necessary level of self- awareness to self-monitor. Furthermore, it doesn’t take into account the redundant MINDSET programs we all have running in our subconscious mind, hidden from our awareness. This is an important area that I focus on. Clearing the old to make way for the new and making the familiar unfamiliar and the unfamiliar familiar. All these are critical to increasing productivity and of course, profits.
Ultimately, what makes the difference is combining Mindset, Strategy and Action. I believe is the way to combat a sluggish economy by helping people feel more inspired, engaged and focused. This is how to increase profits and hit targets.
Once my clients take ownership of their new habits and strategies, they have the tools required to turn “sluggish productivity” into a vibrant outcome by increasing productivity.
Going back to basics and teaching simple techniques for focus is essential for a Mindset for Success
Furthermore, as everything starts within our mind, we have the key to higher profits. Perhaps we need to teach more of these simple techniques in businesses and in our public service to combat sluggish labour productivity, boost profits and pay? While we are not machines and even supermen and superwomen get stuck from time to time, learning as many tools and strategies to increase productivity is helpful. And of course, may well boost profits or pay.
In conclusion, the easiest way to increase productivity and profits is by tweaking your Mindset and ensuring it is set for success!
So, my question for you to consider, is what is the first thing you need to address in yourself and your Mindset, to increase productivity and ultimately lift your profits?
I would love to hear from you.
About the Author
- Curious how Mindset Coaching can help you achieve your results? Schedule a call on my online calendar. Reach out and let’s talk. Let’s see how together we can work towards helping you achieve the results you want and be your very best.
- Looking to discover how to do the things you know you should but don’t? Grab a copy of my free PDF guide Your Winning Mindset
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