Productivity Tip:

Use Feedback Loops

There’s nothing like getting into a flow state to amp up your productivity. You know, that state where you’re in the zone and time seems to melt away… It’s great!

One ingredient to getting into flow is feedback loops. Immediate feedback on what we’re doing acts as a guide, helps us stay engaged, and gives us a dopamine boost that motivates us to keep making progress.

Whether it’s a simple checklist tick-off or a quick chat with a colleague, small moments of reflection can create positive feedback loops that keep you flowing. 

Read more, and see if feedback loops work for you.

Routine Breakdown

Mari Carmen, Entrepreneur & Founder of the FIT MAMA App

“As a busy mum of three and business owner, my morning routine does not always go to plan,” says Mari Carmen. “However, I try to wake up at the same time every day.” She:

• Wakes at 6-6.30 am using a Lumie alarm clock for a “gentler approach.”
• Has coffee. This is her non-negotiable step, and she tries to have it in peace before everyone wakes. “If I get that 10 minutes in the morning to wake up gently, it gives me the patience and positivity I need to tackle my day in my business and as a mother.”
• A few times a week, heads to the gym for 30-45 minutes. If not a gym day, she tries to journal or read 5 pages of a book.
• Has breakfast and gets her kids ready for school.

Why it works:

• Sunrise alarm clocks simulate dawn light, making it easier to wake and minimizing sleep inertia. 
• Getting time alone is an essential part of self-care – especially for parents! “I know many moms have the best intentions of creating a healthy morning routine but it’s not always possible,” says Mari. “My advice in this circumstance is just focus on what you can do, even if it’s just a quick shower.” 
• Having some gym days and some with reading/journaling means Mari gives attention to both physical and mental health throughout the week, while still maintaining a manageable daily routine.
• Mari adds that her evening routine is just as important. “For me to be able to wake up at 6am I need to be asleep by 10pm the night before. I turn off notifications from 8pm and use these 2 hours before bed to relax on my sofa. I get into bed usually around 9.30pm and read 10 pages of a book.” 

Some of her favorites: The Lean Startup by Eric Ries, Key Person of Influence by Daniel Priestley, Think Like a Monk by Jay Shetty, The Universe Has Your Back by Gabrielle Bernstein.