1. Use the time blocking method...
Print out a daily schedule and fill in the gaps with fixed commitments you have. Here's an example. You can then see what time you have to really dedicate yourself to your business or a side line business. Make you sure you allow time for exercise! (see tip 5)
2. Turn off distractions
Ok this is the obvious one... we probably all work with our phones right next to us looking down every time we get a notification. Try putting your phone out of sight for an hour or two and really focus on the job at hand. Close your email for hour too!
3. Stay on top of your accounts and money
Try not to leave it all until the last minute when the tax return is due. Keeping on top of it through-out the year will make you less stressed and more in control. Set aside a morning a month to focus on your accounts.
4. Get out!
You might think to be productive you need to bury your head in your work and never see the light of day. Not true, get out, network, go to a show, do things you love and meet like minded people. Maybe you'll meet someone you can collaborate with. It's important to keep your creative spark alight so getting out and about will in the end help you be more productive.
5. Exercise
You don't need to be running marathons but try to make time for exercise that works for you. Don't like to run, don't run. Love yoga, do yoga... Whilst it's great for fitness it's also good for the mind and healthy minds will lead to better work, probably done quicker as well!
My Skillshare class The Freelancing Guide: How to Organise your Life and Work is currently being offered as part of a much bigger bundle of classes on Productivity, mindset and goal setting. The stack is called Your Best Year Yet. Please do check out everything that is included and there's a massive 97% off the total price of these classes - but the offer runs out tomorrow. There's also a 60 day money back guarantee. Take a look at everything included here - it's huge!
