Get Sh*t Done: 5 Strategies to focus for Early Childhood Leaders and Owners

As an early childhood owner or leader, you have a lot on your plate. From managing your team to overseeing operations, it can be difficult to find time to focus on important tasks. But fear not, because we've got some tips to help you get sh*t done and be more productive.

Close the Door: It's okay to close the door! We know that in early childhood, we often preach about having an open-door policy. But how can you expect to get anything done with constant interruptions? Closing your door doesn't mean that you don't care. Schedule specific times when your door is closed and let your team know when you'll be available. You can even get them to write their name on a sign so you know who to get back to in order.

Phone on DND: Did you know that you can put your phone on Do Not Disturb? It's a game-changer! All those little red dots disappear and no calls come through unless they're on your favorite list. Let everyone know that you'll be unavailable during certain times, and trust us, they'll still be there when you're finished.

Time Block: One of the best time management systems is time blocking. When you block your time in advance, it allows you to be present and focus on a particular task. You wake up knowing what you have to achieve with your time because you've blocked out your schedule. Check out our podcast episode for more info on time blocking.

Set a Timer: If you find it hard to concentrate for long periods, set a timer! There are plenty of different timers on YouTube, your phone, or even a good old-fashioned sand timer. I like to set my focus time for one-hour blocks, and it's great to be able to see how much time is left.

Regular Breaks: Whilst it might sound counterintuitive, taking regular breaks actually makes you more productive. When working on big projects and tasks, take a 10-15 minute break every hour. Get up and move, check in on your team, get some water, or whatever you need to do. You can even research the Pomodoro Technique, a popular time management system.

In conclusion, with these five strategies, you'll be well on your way to getting sh*t done and being more productive as an early childhood owner or leader. Remember, it's okay to close the door, put your phone on Do Not Disturb, time block your schedule, set a timer, and take regular breaks. So go forth and conquer!