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3 Things I’m Doing Differently This Summer to Get More Done in Less Time

A director working in a relaxed, calm environment

This summer looks a little different for me.


I’m navigating life with an 11 week old, a 5 year old and a business that doesn’t press pause just because it’s the school holidays. Between nap schedules, snack requests and client work, it would be easy to feel like I’m drowning in busy.


But here’s the thing - I made a conscious decision that I wasn’t going to let summer slip by in a haze of overwhelm. I wanted time to actually enjoy my family and keep my business moving forward.


So, I’ve been testing out a few changes in how I plan my days and manage my workload. The result? I’m getting more done in less time - without feeling like I’m working 24/7.


Here are the 3 things that are making the biggest difference for me right now:


1. Planning Around Energy, Not the Clock


In the past, I’ve been guilty of creating picture perfect schedules that look great on paper… and completely ignore the reality of my energy levels.


Now, instead of cramming my highest focus work into any spare 30 minute slot, I’m matching tasks to when my brain is most switched on. For me, that’s early morning after the baby’s first feed and again mid-afternoon when I’ve had a break from my desk.


The result? I’m ticking off high impact work faster and saving the low energy moments for admin or creative thinking time.


Tip for you: Track your energy for a few days and notice when you’re naturally most focused. Then, protect those windows for your most important work.


2. Making “Enough” My Goal


I used to start each week with a to do list that could rival War and Peace. And guess what? I ended most days feeling like I’d failed, even when I’d worked flat out.


This summer, I’m setting enough goals - the handful of tasks that will actually move things forward, rather than trying to do it all. Once those are done, everything else is optional.


It’s removed a huge amount of pressure and made my workdays feel more achievable.


Tip for you: Each morning, write down your “enough list” - 1 to 3 priorities that, if done, mean you can call it a good day. Everything else is bonus points.


3. Letting Go of Perfection in My Business


With two kids at home, the reality is things won’t always be polished and I’ve made peace with that. I’m posting content even if it’s not 100% perfect, sending emails that are short and straight to the point and choosing done over perfect every single time.


This mindset shift has freed up so much mental space and allowed me to keep showing up consistently, even on days when time is short.


Tip for you: Ask yourself, “Does this need to be perfect, or does it just need to be done?” More often than not, done will serve you better.


Finding Your Version of Balance


The biggest change for me this summer has been recognising that I can design my work around my life,  not the other way around. And you can too.


If you’re feeling stretched too thin, my free workbook, Take Back Your Time, will help you pinpoint your biggest time drains, streamline your business tasks and design a weekly rhythm that actually works for your real life.


📥 Download it here and start making space for what matters most, whether that’s growing your business, making memories with your kids, or (finally) drinking a hot coffee in peace.


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In Tune Business Solutions (trading name of Emily OBM Ltd) is a company registered in England and Wales, registered with Companies House under registration number 14041655 with a registered office address of 124 City Road, London, EC1V 2NX.

 

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