My Top 3 Productivity Hacks That Still Work

These are the ones I keep coming back to

Some things stop working after a while. But these three — they stuck with me. Not because they're magic. But because they’re simple, real, and easy to return to when life feels too much.

1. The "One Hour Lock-in"

Every day, I try to give myself just one locked-in hour. Phone away. No tabs. No music. No distractions. I just sit and do one thing. Not the most important thing. Not the hardest thing. Just the next thing.

It sounds basic. But this one hour has saved my day more times than I can count.

2. Don’t-Do List

Everyone talks about to-do lists. But mine is a little different.

I keep a don’t-do list on a sticky note:

• Don’t open email before 11 AM
• Don’t scroll after dinner
• Don’t work while eating

It’s not strict. But it reminds me of the habits that usually drain me. The fewer traps I fall into, the more energy I have for the stuff that really matters.

3. Start Small. Ridiculously Small.

When I feel lazy, stuck, or overwhelmed — this one helps:

“Just open the file.”

That’s it. No pressure to write. Just open it. Or: “Just walk for 2 minutes.” Often, it turns into 20. Or 200 words. Or one completed page. But even if it doesn’t — I still win. Because I showed up.

I’ve tried dozens of hacks. Most of them came and went. These three stayed. They don’t need apps. They don’t need perfect mornings. Just a bit of honesty with myself and a willingness to begin.

Hope this helps you find what sticks for you.