There was a time when my to-do list controlled me.
It was long, overwhelming and never-ending.
No matter how much I ticked off, more tasks would appear.
I realised this wasn’t sustainable.
I wanted time freedom, the kind that lets me enjoy family, grow my business and live with purpose.
That’s when I began to rethink productivity.
In one of my interviews, I had an amazing conversation with Glenn Tranter, a business coach who helps leaders free up time. His tips made me rethink how I manage my days.
These lessons also reminded me why I wrote my book, “40 Productivity Hacks for Professionals and Entrepreneurs: Master Your Time and Reduce Overwhelm”, because we all need practical systems to create balance and freedom.
1. Productivity Is About Outcomes, Not Busyness
Glenn said something powerful: ticking off tasks doesn’t equal success.
We love the dopamine hit from crossing things off, but often those tasks aren’t what truly matter.
This hit me hard.
In my 40 Productivity Hacks book, I share exactly how I shifted from busywork to outcome-focused action. It’s about doing less, but achieving more.
2. Spring Clean Your To-Do List
Glenn recommends taking a knife to your list. Cut out the “nice to do” tasks and only keep what truly matters.
I’ve been guilty of holding onto every little task. But after regularly doing a “task detox”, I feel lighter.
Less clutter in my mind means more energy for what matters.
I go into detail about this in Hack #5 in my book, where I teach a simple method to slash your to-do list in half without guilt.
3. Delegate, Outsource and Automate
As a CEO, I can’t do everything. Neither can you.
I outsource tasks to my team and use digital tools to automate repetitive work.
This aligns with one of my favourite hacks in the book: leveraging virtual assistants and automation to win back hours every week.
Ask yourself, what can I delegate? What can I automate?
Even something simple like using online booking tools can save hours.
4. Plan Proactively, Not Reactively
Many of us just react to what pops up in the day. But Glenn recommends weekly planning with time blocks.
I love this idea. On Fridays, I now plan my next week, setting boundaries around work hours, family time and creative time.
This is time boxing, which I discuss in the book as a game-changer for focus. It ensures I work on high-impact tasks first, instead of letting random emails steal my focus.
5. Balance Work and Life with Clear Wins
One of my favourite takeaways?
Have a “big win” each day: one for work and one for home.
It’s easy to get lost in work, especially when working from home.
By choosing one meaningful outcome for both life and business, I end the day feeling fulfilled.
This directly ties to the Lifestyle section in my book, where I show you how to design days that bring both success and joy.
6. Build Habits That Stick
Productivity isn’t a one-time fix.
Like Glenn said, we need to “spring clean” our lists and habits regularly. Every few months, I revisit my systems and priorities. I check if I’m aligned with my goals or slipping back into busyness.
This reflection has saved me from burnout more than once.
In Hack #30 of my book, I share the habit loops that have helped me stay consistent for years.
7. Protect Your Time and Energy
Productivity is not just about doing more. It’s about having energy for what matters, your health, family and purpose. I’ve learned that saying no is just as important as saying yes.
Protecting your time isn’t selfish, it’s necessary. When you’re at your best, everyone benefits, your business, your team, your loved ones.
I believe productivity is about creating space for the life you love. Not just achieving more, but achieving what matters most.
If your to-do list is out of control, take a moment to step back. Ask yourself, “Does this bring me closer to my dream life?” If not, cut it, delegate it, or let it go.
Because success isn’t about how much you do.
It’s about living with purpose, every single day.
Want More Tips Like These?
My book “40 Productivity Hacks for Professionals and Entrepreneurs: Master Your Time and Reduce Overwhelm” dives deep into the exact systems, habits and mindset shifts that transformed my life.
It’s full of simple, actionable strategies you can apply today, whether you’re a busy professional, entrepreneur or parent.
Grab your copy on Amazon now and start creating time freedom: Get the Book Here
Watch my full interview with Glenn Tranter:
