As a digital lifestyle expert on the Today show, CNN, and on my daily talk show on SiriusXM, I try to do one thing: inspire and educate you on how to use technology to change your life and your business. One thing technology can do is help you be much more productive.
Here are two easy steps to get you started:
1. Start Outsourcing Your Life.
When I say outsourcing, I don’t mean moving your business to India–I’m talking about ways to slow down the clock and regain precious time. First, identify the three most time-consuming tasks in your life or business. Then, make a profile on sites such as Gigwalk.com or Elance.com, where you can pay freelancers to take care of some of these tasks, whether it’s creating a sales proposal or running an errand around town. Yes, I know, this is going to cost some money, but you need to place a value on your time. What’s your time worth per hour? If outsourcing frees you up for a higher-paying gig, then it’s worth it. Or maybe you can buy yourself a couple of extra vacation days.
2. Throw Away Your Pen and Paper.
I used to take notes by hand, just like I used to keep my contacts in a Rolodex. But the world of scribbling ideas on the backs of cocktail napkins is over–I do everything digitally now and it seriously enhances my productivity. One of my favorite apps is Evernote, which you can pick up on every type of computer or mobile device out there. More than just note-taking, Evernote is like a digital organizer for your brain–it lets you quickly jot down text, record audio, even take pictures or video. It’s a one-stop shop for all of your ideas, and it automatically syncs across your devices so you can start a note on your computer at home, finish it from your phone on the train, and have it ready to show a client from your tablet when you arrive. It’s also searchable.
I hope this is a jumping-off point for you to start using digital tools to maximize your life, your business, or your organization. I’m hoping to make you smarter and more successful with each article. As comedian Kevin Hart would say “Alright, alright, alright, you gon’ learn today!â€
–Mario Armstrong
Mario Armstrong is an Emmy Award-winning media personality who translates technology for non-tech audiences through his work as a digital lifestyle contributor for HLN, CNN, and NBC’s Today show. Armstrong also hosts the only daily technology talk show on SiriusXM Satellite Radio and is a technology contributor for NPR’s Morning Edition and Tell Me More programs.