Does it ever feel like time is slipping through your fingers? If so, here are five productive things to do at the start of the month, so you can take back your time.
Ugh. Another month has passed and it feels like you’ve got nothing done.
Sure, you’ve been busy—running errands, going on appointments, and keeping the house under control—but it’s like you’re stuck on a treadmill. You’re not moving forward with the things that matter, like your dreams and goals.
Unfortunately, I think far too many people can relate to this feeling. Everyone is busier than ever, and it feels like more is put on your plate every day.
So, what can we do?
While there’s no magic solution, there are ways you can set yourself up for a productive month. Here are five things that will help take back your time—so you can find space for more of what counts.
5 Things To Do On A Monthly Basis
1. Review your calendar
Set aside 10 minutes to review the upcoming month, using either a digital or physical calendar. (Hopefully, you have one that you regularly refer to but if not—make this a priority!)
This is important because too often, we’re short-sighted. We only look at what’s happening in the next few days, but this means we’re left chasing our tails.
Instead, get ahead of the game. Is there a big project due at work later in the month? Why not plan and prep freezer meals ahead of time. Your nephew’s first birthday? Can you order a gift now?
Your future self will thank you for being so organized.
2. Check something hard off your to-do list
We all have annoying tasks that we repeatedly put off. You know, the one that you write on your weekly to-do list over and over again—for months.
Start your month on the right foot by clearing something challenging off your list. Just pick on things you’ve been putting off and get started. (And don’t forget, it’s OK to break big projects into smaller jobs.)
The key is just to begin—and be consistent! You don’t have to do everything today, but if you keep focused, you’ll finally make progress on those “someday” jobs you’ve been putting off.
Plus, it feels good to do hard things, so let the momentum carry you through the month.
3. Review your monthly budget
If you have a monthly budget, take a few minutes to review it. Where were you able to stick to your budget? And where did your spending get out of control?
This isn’t about punishing yourself or beating yourself up about your spending. Instead, it’s about creating awareness.
For example, if you’re never able to stick to your grocery budget, then don’t keep setting yourself up for failure! Instead, something needs to change. Can you change your habits to save money in the kitchen?
If not, you’re better off adjusting your budget to a figure that’s more realistic. This way you can plan ahead (and potentially save money elsewhere) instead of being surprised at the end of the month.
4. Declutter and organize your space
One thing I always do on a monthly basis is decluttering and organizing my home.
Now, this doesn’t mean I do the entire house every month! Instead, I do a quick refresh, which involves:
- Clearing clutter “hot spots” where paper and loose ends tend to live (like the front of the fridge and the table by the front door). Usually, there’s trash to be tossed and a few things that need to be returned to their proper home.
- Going through our closets. We live in a small house and I have two young kids, so I like to quickly check for clothes that they’ve outgrown (or destroyed!).
- Tidying my bedroom. My bedroom is for relaxing, not storage. Once a month, I like to clear out all the little items that tend to creep into my room.
These are just a few ideas, but there’s no need to overwhelm yourself. Just choose a few spaces that are causing you a headache and clear some space. It’s a great way to start the month!
5. Do something for yourself
Have you ever heard the saying that you need to “slow down to speed up”?
I know it’s not always easy to do, but if you don’t rest and care for yourself, you’re eventually going to burn out. You can’t be productive if you’re exhausted, so do your best to make time.
I try to plan at least one act of “me time” each month, like a trip to the hairdresser or a lunch with friends. (I’d love to do this more often but it’s not always possible with two young kids.)
But anyway, do the best you can. Even if you only have an hour or two, take it because investing in yourself will always pay off in the end.
Be Productive All Month Long
Looking for more productivity tips? Check out these posts:
- 8 Productive Things To Do In 10 Minutes That Will Improve Your Day
- 8 Productive Things To Do At Night For An Easy Morning
What are some things you do to have a productive month? Let us know your tips in the comments!