Running a small business means wearing many hats (too many hats, we'd say!) and staying productive can feel like an impossible task. If you're wondering how the heck you're supposed to do all the things, and stay productive at the same time, we got you. Here are 11 productivity hacks to help you manage your time effectively as a small business owner.

1. Plan your day the night before

It sounds so simple, but taking five minutes every evening to prioritise your tasks for the next day can really help you hit the ground running the next morning. Use task management tools to schedule and track your to-do list, so you can stay on top of everything and not feel too overwhelmed about the task at hand.

2. Automate repetitive tasks

Is there something that is soul crushingly boring and repetitive but takes quite a lot of your time? It's time to automate. Automate processes like invoicing, client follow-ups, follow-up communications, content creation and scheduling, reducing the need for manual work that takes away the hours from the day.

3. Batch similar tasks together

Focus on one type of task at a time so you don't feel like a chicken with its head chopped off. Group similar tasks together—like responding to emails or processing orders—and complete them in one go. This minimises distractions and helps you stay focused on similar workflow. 

4. Use templates 

Whether you're writing similar emails, creating similar content, or building out similar decks, use templates to save time, but leave room for that personalised touch. Do an audit of all the jobs that are taking up your time, and identify anything that can be templatised. Download our social media templates here.

5. Take advantage of time tracking

Use time-tracking tools to better understand how you spend your day. Time-tracking tools can help you monitor how long you’re spending on different tasks, so you can identify areas to improve in terms of efficiency.

6. Set daily, weekly, and monthly goals

It's all well and good to have an idea of what your goals are, but until they're written down and referred back to, they're not concrete. Break your goals down into smaller tasks by breaking them down into daily, weekly and monthly actions. Check out our goal setting coaching sessions for more information on how to create actionable and accountable goals. 

7. Outsource when possible

You don't need to do everything yourself, and you certainly don't need to do it all alone. Outsource tasks like bookkeeping, marketing, or customer support. We have a whole variety of financial, marketing and publicity tools, resources and coaching support through our Business Growth Network. Join us to feel supported by an entire community. 

8. Set specific work hours

This one is going to be a tough one for most business owners, but it's important to establish clear boundaries by setting specific working hours. Of course, there are going to be extra busy periods where we need to hustle and work during different, less structured hours, but sticking to a specific schedule can help you maintain a work-life balance and prevent burnout. 

9. Limit multitasking

We all do it, and sometimes we do it without even realising it. But try to keep multitasking to a minimum. It might seem efficient, but it can reduce productivity. Focus on one task at a time to ensure higher quality,  faster results and less frazzled thoughts.

10. Delegate responsibilities 

Empower your team by delegating tasks effectively. Use team management systems to assign tasks and track progress, ensuring that everyone is working towards the same goals. Check out our coaching session on how to build a successful team here for more guidance and support.

11. Take regular breaks

It sometimes feels counterproductive, doesn't it? If we just work through lunch and get this last job done, then we're going to be more productive, right? Not necessarily. Stepping away from your work can help to refresh your mind and even increase your productivity. Schedule short breaks throughout the day to avoid burnout and help you maintain your focus. Your business (and your future self) will thank you. 

Have any other productivity hacks to add? Let us know in the comments below.