Productivity isn’t just about getting more done—it’s about working smarter, not harder. As a business owner, mother to our two-year-old son Joshua, and currently pregnant, I’ve had to refine my productivity strategies through my 6 years in business to ensure I can give my best both at work and at home.
Here are some productivity strategies that have helped me and my business thrive:
Adopt the Eisenhower Matrix
One of the most effective ways to prioritise tasks is by using the Eisenhower Matrix.
This method categorises tasks into four quadrants:
- Urgent & Important
- Important but Not Urgent
- Urgent but Not Important
- Neither Urgent nor Important
Focusing on tasks that are important but not necessarily urgent helps you work strategically and avoid last-minute stress.
I use this matrix to prioritise client consultations and design work over less critical administrative tasks. This ensures that every piece of jewellery we create receives the attention to detail it deserves.
Apply the 80/20 Rule (Pareto Principle)
The 80/20 rule suggests that 80% of your results come from 20% of your efforts. Identifying high-impact tasks and focusing on them ensures you’re spending your time and energy where it matters most.
For my business, custom engagement rings and wedding bands are our most sought-after products. By dedicating more time to these areas, I can deliver exceptional results for my clients while growing the business.
Batch Similar Tasks
Grouping similar tasks—like responding to emails, making phone calls, or handling admin—reduces context switching and saves time.
I set aside specific times each day to respond to client enquiries and manage orders. This helps me stay on top of communications without interrupting my creative flow.
Practice Deep Work
Deep work means dedicating uninterrupted time to high-value, cognitively demanding tasks. Turning off distractions like email notifications and social media helps ensure peak efficiency.
When designing a new piece of jewellery, I block out several hours for deep work. This allows me to fully immerse myself in the creative process and bring my clients’ visions to life.
Delegate and Outsource Effectively
As a business owner, it’s tempting to try to do everything yourself—but delegation is key to productivity. My husband Damien handles tasks like inventory management and payments. This frees up my time to focus on what I do best—designing and creating beautiful, ethically sourced jewellery.
Use the Ivy Lee Method
At the end of each day, write down the six most important tasks for the next day and prioritise them. This simple yet powerful method keeps you focused and organised.
I find this especially useful when managing multiple custom orders. By listing my priorities daily, I ensure that every client receives the attention and care they deserve.
Maintain a Clean and Organised Workspace
A clutter-free environment can work wonders for focus and productivity. On Wednesdays and Fridays, I tidy my workshop, ensuring I have a clear and organised space to work in. Keeping my tools and materials neatly arranged allows me to focus on creativity without distractions.
Set Boundaries and Learn to Say No
Overcommitting leads to burnout. Setting clear boundaries and learning to say no to tasks that don’t align with your priorities helps you stay focused on what truly matters.
As a mother and business owner, I’ve had to set boundaries to ensure I have time for both my family and my work. This balance is essential for maintaining my creativity and passion for jewellery design.
Reflect and Adjust Regularly
At the end of each week, take time to reflect on what worked and what didn’t. Adjust your strategies accordingly to continuously improve productivity.
I use this time to review client feedback, assess my workflow, and make any necessary changes. This ensures that my business continues to deliver exceptional quality and service.
Final Thoughts
Running a business like Rachel Beth Jewellery requires a delicate balance of creativity, organisation, and efficiency. We specialise in creating custom engagement and wedding rings using ethically sourced Australian sapphires and diamonds. Each piece is crafted with care and attention to detail, reflecting the unique love story of every client.
