From Busy to Productive: How to Focus on What Truly Matters

by Kristina Karlsson

 

Have you ever ended the day feeling exhausted, yet wondering if you actually made progress on the things that truly matter?

If so, you’re not alone.

We live in a world where busyness is often worn like a badge of honor.

Endless to-do lists, back-to-back meetings, notifications demanding our attention—it’s easy to mistake being busy for being productive.

But here’s the truth: busyness is not the same as progress.

This week, I want to share a powerful mindset shift that can transform the way you approach your work, your goals, and your life. It comes from Tim Ferriss:

"Focus on being productive instead of busy."

 

Let’s explore what that really means - as I did in this recent podcast episode - and how you can apply it to create a more intentional, fulfilling, and productive life.

1. Know Your Priorities – The Rule of Three

Most people start their day by writing long to-do lists.

But the problem? 

Not all tasks are created equal. Some move us forward, while others just keep us busy.

So, instead of writing an endless list, try this:

➡ Identify the three most important tasks that will make the biggest impact today.

➡ Ask yourself: Will these tasks move me closer to my dream life?

If something isn’t aligned with your goals or values, it might not be worth your time.

Prioritizing means choosing what truly matters—and letting go of the rest.

It's a cornerstone of the quarterly planning approach I've refined over the years - which we work through every quarter in my coaching program to keep us all focussed on the most important and meaningful things for us each.

2. Time Block Like a Pro

Productivity isn’t about doing more things—it’s about doing the right things. One of the best ways to stay focused is through time blocking.

Here’s how to do it:

🕒 Set aside focused time for your most important tasks.

📵 Remove distractions (yes, that means putting your phone in another room!).

🎯 Work in sprints—try 25-50 minutes of deep work, followed by a short break.

By scheduling dedicated time for high-impact tasks, you create space for meaningful work—without constant interruptions.

3. Eliminate "Fake Productivity"

Have you ever spent a whole day answering emails, attending meetings, or scrolling social media—only to feel like you got nothing done?

That’s fake productivity—tasks that make us feel busy, but don’t actually move us forward.

To break free from this cycle, try these simple shifts:

🚫 Stop checking emails first thing in the morning. Instead, start your day with your most important task.

🚫 Say "no" to things that don’t align with your dreams. Every "yes" is a "no" to something else.

🚫 Stop multitasking. Research shows it actually slows you down!

Instead, focus on deep, meaningful work that drives real progress.

4. Create Space for What Matters

True productivity isn’t about cramming more into your day—it’s about creating space.

⏳ Space to think.

☕ Space to reflect.

🌱 Space to grow.

Inside my Dream Life Coaching Program, we take a different approach to productivity - based on my many years of experience and trial and error. 

It’s not about doing more—it’s about doing what truly matters and designing a life that aligns with your values.

Are You Ready to Shift from Busy to Productive?

If this resonates with you, I have something exciting coming up in April!

💛 It’s not about getting more done—it’s about doing the right things.

💛 It’s about designing a life that aligns with your values.

💛 It’s about progress, not burnout.

If you’re ready for a new way of working and living, I’d love for you to join me!

✨ Visit www.yourdreamlifestartshere.com to sign up! ✨

Your Challenge This Week

I want you to choose one area of your life where you can shift from being busy to being productive.

Is it your career?

Your personal goals?

Your wellness?

Your relationships?

Make one small change today—because small shifts create massive transformations.

And remember: You don’t need to do more to have a fulfilled life. You just need to do what truly matters.

Wishing you a focused, intentional, and productive week ahead!

I'd love to help you whenever you're ready 💛