Have a project you’ve been putting off? Need a strong shove to get it done? Deb and Cris have got you covered! In this episode, they delve into extreme strategies you can use to overcome procrastination, like burning money. Literally!  The discussion covers unusual “anti-procrastination” apps, methods from authors Jon Acuff and Raymond Chandler, and even a tip from a well-known comedian. Use this episode as a comprehensive guide to unconventional techniques to combat procrastination so you can get ‘er done!  PSA: Have sensitive ears? Be forewarned -- there is a colorfu ..read more

In this episode, Cris shares a pet peeve -- how annoying “being basic” can be especially when it comes to productivity tips and tricks. And asks the question: What should you do when you’re looking for the “holy grail” of strategies so you can finally boost your productivity BUT all you get is the boring stuff you’ve already heard about? In this discussion, Cris and Deb tease through how you can go from annoyed to productive with "just the basics."  DISCUSSION POINTS The pros and cons of basic productivity habits Cris and Deb’s “basics” of productivity Routines & mindsets that match ..read more

In this episode, Deb and Cris discuss the importance of self-care for parents, especially mothers. They share personal experiences and insights on balancing motherhood and work, emphasizing the need for a strong support system and meaningful relationships beyond the parent-child dynamic. Cris and Deb explore self-care strategies for busy moms and the essential role it plays in maintaining productivity. DISCUSSION POINTS Cris’ AARP membership and Seasonal Affectation Disorder What is “Mom Neglect?” How can you balance motherhood and work? Strategies to help parents feel more in control and pro ..read more

In this episode, Deb and Cris dig into a listener question submitted through their survey form (link below in “Resources”). The question centers on using sticky notes to write to-do lists. Cris and Deb go through the pros and cons of sticky notes and share some stories about clients who were extreme sticky note users and savers. They aslo offer some tools and solutions to stop the chaos and help you keep track of those little pieces of paper. Discussion Points: What is ‘junk’ to an organizer? Do you have to stop using sticky notes to capture your to-dos? Ways to organize your note and find th ..read more

Author and podcaster Chris Brogan (“The Backpack Show”) begins each year by selecting 3 words with which he frames all of his activities and choices for the year. Deb and Cris disclose their three chosen words for 2023 (Deb has only found 2 so far), share how they chose these particular words, and what they mean to each other personally.   You’ll hear how these words will help them frame decisions and choices that they make, how they will say yes or no to projects, and how choosing three words can help you be more productive by shaping the rest of your activities throughout the ..read more

If money wasn’t an object, would you hire a specific person (or persons) to manage some of the stuff of life?  In this episode, Deb and Cris fantasize about having “3 favorite people” who would free up some of their time and contribute to their overall well-being. You’ll hear what kinds of tasks these “helpers” could take off their plate, and what Cris and Deb would do with all their new-found free time. Listen to this episode to hear all about it and share who *your* 3 favorite people would be. Discussion Points: Clappers, sunshine, and plants Celebrating two years of the Productivity L ..read more

Are you falling victim to the fear of things not being perfect? Do you procrastinate because you don’t have the right organizing tools or containers? Cris and Deb are here to let you know that it doesn’t all have to be perfect!  In this episode, you’ll hear about a client named “Carol” (not her real name) who was completely stuck and couldn’t move forward with her organizing project because (you guessed it) things weren’t *exactly* as she wanted them to be. Don’t let this happen to you. Listen to this episode to learn about simple things you can do overcome perfectionism so you can get st ..read more

Is there one person on your work team that doesn’t pull their weight? Or the one whose energy brings everyone down? Do you cringe when they walk into the room or get a sinking feeling when you receive an email from them?   In this episode, we’ll discuss the “lazy coworker” and “toxic teammate.” And we’ll share advice about how you on how to handle these tricky team members. Have your own tips that have worked for you? Tell us!    Discussion Points:  So, you’re the boss. How do you manage the lazy employee or toxic person who sucks the energy out of the room?  ..read more

  Cris Sgrott and Deb Lee are both going through major life changes - Cris is moving house and Deb is renovating her kitchen. They are both struggling to deal with the pressure of things around them be so disorganized - knowing that they both make a living out of helping people organize their lives. Both of them find themselves dealing with these changes and stresses differently and in today’s episode they talk about the highs and lows of dealing with big changes like these in life.  Discussion Points: The upheaval of building and moving Dealing with change What is your "Productivit ..read more

Do you wear a Fitbit smart watch, Apple Watch, or some other wearable device? If so, you won’t want to miss this episode! We’re talking about how helpful these devices are to our productivity. And whether or not they can cramp your productivity style.   You’ll hear about Deb’s experience with her own Fitbit and Cris’ hesitation (and slight desire) to buy one.   Discussion Points:   -Pros and cons of a fitness tracker or smart watch -At what point is it too much? -Should you stop wearing it once you’ve reached your goal? -Will Cris join the Fitbit crew?   Resources:   ..read more