Would you like to get more done? There are a few simple and easy tricks that can radically skyrocket your productivity, income and satisfaction.

But when overwhelm hits, it all comes down to knowing what’s going to make the biggest impact - fast.

Here are my top 7 strategies to get you back on track in an instant:

1. Single-task

Are you a chronic multi-tasker? STOP that! Multi-tasking is moronic. It’s also the biggest productivity killer there is. Why? Because no two things can occupy the same space at the same time. For example, it’s impossible to be EFFECTIVE on the phone and email too. Not only do you miss parts of both tasks, but you make mistakes, drive your stress level sky high and do major damage your relationships. (Just think of how it feels when you’re speaking to someone on the phone who you KNOW is checking their emails!) Single-tasking, or, doing just one thing at a time with excellence is where it’s at.

2. Quit

That’s right. You read it correctly. I said quit! Sometimes we creative entrepreneurs get sucked into every new “bright and shiny” opportunity that comes our way. A few months ago I found myself feeling bogged down and realized I was involved in a project that really wasn’t a good fit for me. But I was scared to back out for fear of what it would do to my reputation. You know what? Getting OUT of that project produced a windfall of other, more profitable projects! Plus I had a surge of energy and time. And honestly, the other person felt relieved too.

3. Shut all the gadgets OFF

Don’t become the victim of your constant ringing phone, IM and emails. When you need to produce results, shut all your gadgets and notifications off. Contrary to popular belief, the world will not come to an end if you disconnect for a few hours. In fact, I guarantee that the more time you regularly “unplug”, the easier it will be for you to complete projects that bring you money and satisfaction.

4. Ditch and delete ruthlessly

Do you have piles of unread mail, newsletters and magazines? How about disorganized files on your computer? Or hundreds of emails in your inbox?

Most of us are buried under heaps of useless information that we collect because we “might need it someday.” PAALLEASE! Let’s get real people. 99% of this information can be chucked. I recently had to re-install the operating system on my computer and lost a good portion of my current inbox. While all my important files and emails are backed up and safe, those 25 or so emails in my inbox got wiped out! Guess what? No harm done and no small children died. Sometimes, the best way to move forward fast it to be bold with your delete key and trash bin.

5. Knock yourself off the Internet

When I’m on traveling on a plane it’s shocking how much writing I get done. Why? Because there’s no frickin’ Internet connection! The crack-head-like-addiction to hit send and receive or check Facebook simply vanishes. (Just to be clear, Facebook rocks. It’s super fun and if you’re on Facebook, add me as your friend!) But every once in a while, if you need to crank out a project fast, unplug your Internet connection and turn off your wireless access. Then dive in to producing results!

6. If it ain’t a ‘hell yes’ it’s a ‘hell no’

My friend Lorrie Morgan-Ferraro shared this quote with me recently and I love it! Take a look around your business and your life. If anything (including a relationship, project, client, outfit, opportunity, etc.) isn’t a “hell yes!” it should be “hell no!” Don’t allow time-suckers and energy drainers into your life. Unless you are absolutely clear you want to invest your time and energy into something or someone, steer clear. This is especially important the more successful you become!

7. Quit complaining

Complaining may be the deadliest time, money and satisfaction killer there is. The trick here is to really pay attention, BE HONEST and notice how much of the time you’re moaning (silently or aloud) about something. Want to know the wild part? Most of us complain so automatically we don’t even realize we’re doing it. In fact, we often complain about things we have absolutely no control over (like the weather) and wonder why we feel exhausted at the end of every day. My suggestion? Quit complaining cold turkey and watch your productivity and well-being rise fast.

Photo originally uploaded by rephlektiv