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Short on time? No problem!

It’s rare to have a whole day to devote to your passion projects, so make the most of the time you do have. Last month, I explained how you can use short increments of time to make a difference in productivity. Now, we’ll figure out what to do with that time.

Here are a variety of things you can do in 15 minutes during your breaks at work, long lines at the DMV, and other downtime -like waiting to pick up your kids at school -to take your productivity and your business to the next level!

Read

• A book or magazine about your industry.
• Research relevant websites.
• Email blasts from competitors.

Stay on top of what’s happening in your field. This gives you a competitive edge and increases your level of expertise.

Write

• A to-do list, grocery list, or quick journal entry.
• A query, blog post, or blog and social-networking comments.
• Your bio, press release, or a draft of your business plan.

Instead of spending a lot of time mulling  over the items you have to write, write them quickly. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at how effective focused writing-time can be. You can always edit queries, blog posts, and publicity materials later.

Relax

• Take a walk, exercise or power-nap.
• Cook, garden, meditate.
• Sketch, take photos, work a crossword puzzle or Sudoku.

Do whatever it takes to do a personal “system re-boot.” You will feel refreshed and will be more productive when you head back to your daily routine.