Productivity Hacks I Use to Combat Burnout
No exaggeration, these work every single time.
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Earlier this week, I shared a snippet of my Tuesday schedule on social media. Afterward, I was inundated with questions about productivity, structure, and general entrepreneurship. I thought for this week’s newsletter, I would give you a little insight on the most popular ask: How do you beat burnout when you ~need~ to be productive?
Before I answer that, a little insight into how I spend my time these days.
I’d estimate that 75 percent of my energy is dedicated to the podcast. (Interested in starting your own? Check out my Intro to Podcasting Hurdle Session.) Roughly 15 percent is spent on freelance writing. I’ve been freelance writing for five years now. Although I’ve dabbled in a ton of different editorial from digital to print, I mostly write for GQ.com at the moment. The other 10 percent is spent running corporate goal setting and resilience sessions. (I’ve hosted other company seminars in the past — like how to instill healthy habits into your daily routine — but goals seem to be top-of-mind at the start of a new year.) I love the variety in my day to day, which could include transitioning from an on-camera interview to producing an episode, then talking about fun new initiatives with podcast sponsors and trying out new fitness apps (and then, writing about them).
You get the idea. Lots of different stuff!
I can confidently say that I love most of what I do. I feel very fortunate that I’ve figured out how to harness my skillset and turn my passion into a career. Still, that doesn’t mean that work doesn’t feel like work (and that there isn’t a lot of it!), or that I don’t battle with burnout.
Cue: My productivity tips.
Tip no. 1: Start your day in a way that feels nourishing your soul. For me, that kicks off with journaling, quiet time, making my bed, movement, my go-to podcasts, and good coffee. As Liz Plosser, editor-in-chief of Women’s Health, said during our conversation on how to have a better morning, it’s important to kickstart your hours with things that align with your core values. So — for example — since wellness is one of mine, that a.m. movement checks that box. Beginning your day with intention helps you feel more calm and ready to handle whatever comes your way as the work really begins.
Tip no. 2: Make a timed schedule. I remember at my first job out of college, my boss Amy had us record how much time it took us to do things for an entire work week. In doing so, I realized how much time I had admittedly been wasting. These days, when I’ve got a lot of things on my to-do list, I write out my tasks and then plug them into a schedule, giving myself a realistic time slot for each item. It’s a game-changer.
Most importantly, though, I’ll say this re: productivity: Have some grace with yourself. When I cannot get my head in the game for the life of me, I’ll get up from my desk and remove myself from the space for a bit. Take a walk around the block. Call a family member or friend that I’ve been meaning to catch up with. Twenty minutes later, I’ll come back to it.
Do the best you can with what you have. Maybe these strategies will help you like they’ve helped me. You’ve got this — keep hurdling,
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE WEEK
I’m Listening To: Coach's Corner: Ritual over Routine, Recalibration over Resolutions on The Rich Roll Podcast
From Chelsey, the Hurdle assistant: "I know this was a few weeks ago, but I listened to this on my first training long run for my spring marathon and so many moments I caught myself just wanting to say 'yes!' out loud. This episode is a candid conversation with Rich and guests Alexi Pappas, Chris Hauth, and Caroline Burkle where they talk about so much, from the new year and reframing how they look at goals to the best-practices for living according to your values.”
What I’m Watching: Cheer, Season 2 on Netflix
Spoiler alert: Gabi Butler is on the podcast on Monday! The second season of the highly addictive Netflix series came out this past Wednesday, I’m about three episodes in, and amped to bring you our conversation next week.
What I’m Reading: Find Your Unicorn Space: Reclaim Your Creative Life in a Too-Busy World by Eve Rodsky
Saw Robin Arzon post about this earlier last week, and it looked up my alley. I’m only 10 pages deep, but I’m about it. And! Speaking of Robin, a huge congrats to her on the launch of her new book, Strong Mama! Missed Robin on the show? Check out her original episode from 2018, plus her best tips on how navigate race day.
What I’m Wearing: Athleta Inlet Jacket
A few weeks back, we highlighted Lululemon’s ultra-warm, idyllic winter Down for It All Jacket. Think of this follow-up pick from Athleta as the bargain version. The biggest difference is that it’s not as tailored, but it’s certainly a great buy for chilly morning workouts, complete with a bunch of pockets to stash your cards, keys, mask, and phone.
Quote I’m Loving: “You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.” — Martin Luther King Jr.
Thanks to LMNT — an electrolyte drink mix with everything you need and nothing you don't — for supporting Hurdle.
Meet LMNT, zero-sugar hydration to support your active lifestyle. I’m the saltiest sweater (cute, I know). These electrolytes have been my go-to recently to perform better. I like them not just because they taste great (the orange salt is my favorite), but they’re also without artificial ingredients, sugar, and coloring. With LMNT, you can:
☀️ Kickstart your mornings
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Head to DrinkLMNT.com/Hurdle to get a FREE LMNT sample pack, including two citrus, two raspberry, two orange, and two raw unflavored. You only pay $5 for shipping! To claim this deal you must go to DrinkLMNT.com/Hurdle — no code necessary.
🎧 NEW PODCAST EPISODE: 190. Lexi duPont, Pro Skier
I have a massive crush on Lexi Dupont. There, I said it. The pro skier is one of the most down-to-earth, fun women I've had the pleasure of speaking with in some time. For episode 190, you'll find out why. We talk about Lexi getting into skiing and sport at a young age, and how she learned to conquer her fear of heights to go on crazy adventures — from skiing some of the world's most gnarly terrain to hiking up Kilimanjaro. We also talk about her new title — pilot (!) — and her excitement for the upcoming Freeride World Tour. Plus: The benefits of working with a sport psychologist to get out of her own way, and what she's looking forward to in the new year.
🎧 NEW PODCAST EPISODE: An Expert On Smarter Nutrition In 2022
This episode has nothing to do with restriction (except that we talk about how it can be majorly detrimental). I call in Lisa Moskovitz, RD, CDN, author of The Core 3 Healthy Eating Plan and the CEO of NY Nutrition Group, to talk about the types of resolutions and goals we should be making in 2022 when it comes to nourishing our bodies. Think things you should be adding in instead of getting rid of, nourishment beyond just good (content, energy), thinking about the "three B's", and choosing alcohol wisely (including my big $ idea).
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Check out one of the Hurdle Sessions, now available on the Hurdle website:
How to Start (and Stay!) Running
How to Take Your Running to the Next Level
Intro to Freelance Writing
Intro to Podcasting
How to Turn Your Side Hustle Into Your Main Gig
Finding Your Power Alone
How to Build a Social Media Presence
Media Strategy for Fitness Professionals
Goal Setting Workshop
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Another (weekly) Hurdle conquered. Catch you guys next week.