If you’re looking to boost your productivity, use the power hour method to get things done.
With so many different productivity techniques out there, you might be wondering if the power hour method is the best one for your needs.
For those of you who are unfamiliar, the power hour method is when you set aside an hour of your day to focus on your top priorities.
The limited time frame is what makes the power hour method so effective. Instead of dragging your heels on a task, or waiting until inspiration strikes, the power hour method motivates you to be productive. It may sound counterintuitive, but when you know you only have a limited amount of time, it lights a little fire underneath you and allows you to marshall your focus, energy, and concentration for that one hour period.
This is great news for people who have trouble getting started on a specific task. Or busy people who could really use an opportunity to make inroads on a goal or to get things done around the house.
Other benefits of having a power hour for your day:
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You can tackle a project or task you’ve been putting off.
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You can have dedicated time to work on a creative project.
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You can batch similar tasks and get them all done in one fell swoop.
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You can be productive and efficient with your time instead of feeling pressured to work the entire day.
Below we’ll share some tips and tricks on how to plan your power hour so you can get the most out of your 60 minute block.
Identify your top priorities
First things first, you’ll want to identify your top priorities for the day. When you narrow down your options and get really specific about what’s important, that’s when you can be really impactful with your time.
For this exercise, you can use our Action Plan Pad to help you define your priorities and break them down into actionable tasks. By having everything laid out before you, you’ll feel a lot more organized and clear-headed about your day.
If you’re having trouble honing in on your priorities, then take a look at your calendar or planner. What deadlines are coming up? What work assignments do you need to finish? What errands need to get done? What personal projects or family plans do you need to start working on?
Laser in on one or two priorities so that you can manage your time efficiently without overloading your schedule.
Make a list of actionable tasks you can do with your power hour
Now that you’ve identified one or two priorities, the next step is to make a list of the relevant tasks you can do in your 60 minute block.
For example, if your priority is to plan a family vacation, then you can book flights and hotels during your power hour.
Be practical. What are things you can realistically achieve in an hour? If your priority is to clean and organize the house, don’t try to do the entire house. Pick one zone or room to focus on. For instance, deep clean your bathroom or declutter your closet or organize the pantry.
Break a project into small steps. Another way to maximize your power hour is to break a big project into small steps. For example, if your priority is to work on a presentation, then use your power hour to design your deck, select images and graphics, choose a color palette, etc.
String together similar tasks. Another way to make your power hour more productive and efficient is to batch similar tasks together. Batching tasks harnesses your focus and concentration. When you switch between different types of tasks, such as brainstorming creative ideas and then following it with emails, you actually have a harder time sustaining your focus. However, when you batch similar tasks together, like doing all of your admin work in one go or doing all of your chores, you never disrupt your flow and you can get a lot more done.
How to make the most of your power hour
Here’s how to set up your schedule and your workspace so you can eliminate distractions and stay focused during your power hour.
Find your ideal power hour. Some people are morning people while others are night owls. So schedule your power hour during a time of day you’ll feel most energized and motivated. Another option is to schedule your power hour during a time you’ll have the house to yourself. Or when you know you won’t be interrupted by coworkers or meetings.
Schedule your power hour. If you schedule your power hour in your planner or calendar, you’ll be more committed to follow through on it. Otherwise, you’ll be tempted to skip your power hour.
Set your phone to “do not disturb.” There’s nothing more annoying than being completely absorbed in your work only to hear the ping of an incoming message. You don’t want text chains and new messages to disrupt your work flow, especially if you’re trying to get some good work done or do some creative thinking. Silence your phone and put it in another room.
Have your essential tools ready. Gather your supplies or office tools beforehand. Are you doing some creative brainstorming? Then have your notebooks and pens ready to go. Are you getting your finances organized? Then have your paperwork in a folder. Are you planning a big trip? Then have your calendar on hand. Doing a little preparation beforehand will help ensure you hit the ground running once your power hour begins.
Have a small treat. There’s nothing like knowing there’s a small treat waiting for you to help you get over the finish line. So treat yourself to a simple pleasure or a comforting act of self-care. A cozy cup of coffee or tea. Cuddling with your pet. Or dancing to your favorite playlist. These little treats can help you celebrate a successful power hour, as well as help you unwind afterwards.
Written by JiJi Lee