Here's what we dig into:

• Why data alone isn't enough and why context is the thing most businesses are missing
• What "key person risk" actually means and why it probably applies to you, even if you've never heard the term
• How scaling a business quietly creates communication breakdown at the leadership level
• The question Andy asks every founder that most can't fully answer

Want to connect with Andy? [LinkedIn] [Email: anunez@balmvillecapitalpartners.com ]

Want to connect with Elise? [LinkedIn] [Email: Elise@EliseEnriquez.com ]

You know how sometimes you're crushing it at work, checking all the boxes, getting promoted, doing everything "right"... and you're completely miserable? Yeah, we're talking about that today.

I sat down with Amy Bruske from Kolbe Corp to dig into something I've been nerding out about for years: the Kolbe Index. This isn't about personality or skills—it's about how your brain actually gets things done.

Here's what we covered:

• Why getting promoted based on your weaknesses is a recipe for burnout (even when you're "successful")
• The missing third part of your mind that most assessments ignore—and why it changes everything about productivity
• Why someone else's perfect system might make you want to throw your laptop out the window
• How understanding your partner's or teammate's Kolbe results can turn conflict into collaboration
• The three Cs framework: Clarity, Commitment, and Control (and how to actually use them)

Resources mentioned:

• Book: Do More, More Naturally by Amy Bruske and David Kolbe (it's short, accessible, and has zero fluff—you can read it on a plane ride)
• Kolbe.com for free resources, videos, and to take your Kolbe Index
• They have versions for kids too, which means my nieces are about to get very familiar with assessments

My Kolbe result: 2, 8, 6, 5 (which explains SO MUCH about why I want the summary, not the dissertation)

Want to share your biggest insight from this episode? I'd love to hear what landed for you. And if you have questions about the Kolbe Index, hit me up—I'm happy to point you to resources or share from my own experience.

Keep making progress on what matters most to you.

Show Notes:

This week I'm sharing a conversation I had with Mari Wuellner on her Living on Purpose Podcast about the state of the coaching industry and why it desperately needs a reality check.

What we covered:

• The trust deficit in coaching and why the industry needs better solutions 
• How the "guru model" is broken - nobody can actually be an expert at everything 
• Mari's revolutionary faculty model with The Crew and why I decided to join as productivity faculty 
• My 16-year journey watching the coaching industry explode, both the good and the messy 
• Why quick fixes and miracle promises are setting people up to fail 
• How my divorce taught me that systems beat willpower every time 
• The unsexy truth: real change takes time and consistent support

Mari is revolutionizing coaching by bringing expert coaches together in one community at $97/month - because coaching shouldn't only be accessible to wealthy people. Instead of one person claiming they can fix your entire life, you get actual experts in productivity, mindset, wellness, and more.

This felt like the right kind of coaching to be part of. We stick around long enough to help you actually implement what you learn instead of dumping information and disappearing.

If you've been burned by coaching before or you're curious about what sustainable support actually looks like, this episode will give you a lot to think about.

Links:
Join The Crew
Schedule a chat with Mari

Money can be scary for entrepreneurs - especially when we're trying to make an impact while also making a profit. Ever feel guilty about charging what you're worth? Or maybe you're avoiding looking at your books altogether? (I've been there!)

That's why I'm thrilled to share my conversation with Audrey Heesch, the self-proclaimed "quirky money lady" and founder of The Graceful Penny. She's on a mission to help entrepreneurs build financial confidence without sacrificing their values.

In this episode, we dive into:

• The four pillars of financial wellness for business owners
• Why separating business and personal finances is absolutely crucial (and how to start)
• Common money mistakes entrepreneurs make - and how to avoid them
• How to view budgeting as a tool for expansion rather than restriction
• When you actually need to start thinking about detailed budgets (hint: it might not be right now)
• Why it's never too early to get professional help with your books

🎁 FREE RESOURCE

Download Audrey's financial tracker spreadsheet to start getting clarity on your numbers! It's beginner-friendly and designed to help you build confidence with your finances. And it includes a demo. Get it here: https://thegracefulpenny.podia.com/financial-tracker

About Audrey: Audrey Heesch started her accounting journey at age 14 when her mom handed her a laptop and checkbook and said "figure it out." Today, she helps entrepreneurs infuse financial literacy and ethics into their businesses through The Graceful Penny. Her mission is to help business owners make money confidently while creating positive impact in the world.

Keep making progress on what matters most to you!

-Elise

==================

To uncover your Productivity Personality, go here.

Want support getting your team's systems in place? That's what I do! Reach out to learn more about how we can work together. Email me at: Elise@EliseEnriquez.com

Episode 127

Beyond 'Let's Circle Back After the Holidays': Making it Actually Work

Hey Shifters! ✨

We're diving into that familiar end-of-year phrase we're all starting to hear (and say): "Let's circle back after the holidays." But instead of letting these tasks float into the void, I'm showing you how to handle them intentionally!

In this episode:

- Why I'm in full "circle back" mode (including some personal updates about my wife's upcoming knee surgery)

- How to do a realistic pre-holiday task audit

- Setting up your systems to actually support you (whether you're team digital or pen-and-paper)

- The 3 C's of intention: Clarity, Communication, and Consistency

- Practical tips for GQueues users (link below)

Pro Tip: Don't just mentally postpone tasks – actually update your systems to reflect the new timeline! Your future self will thank you.

Resources Mentioned:

- GQueues Task Management App: https://gqz.page.link/H83oswp1dR3EEijA8

Remember Shifters: Being realistic about what won't get done is just as important as being clear about what will. 

When Your Plate is Too Full: Prioritize Your Way to a Lighter Load

Hey Shifters! In this episode, we're diving into that overwhelming feeling when your plate is too full - you know the one, where your chest gets tight just thinking about all those tasks? Let's talk about how to handle it, especially during the hectic Q4 season.

In this episode:

- Why Q4 can create extra stress and overwhelm

- The importance of brain dumps when feeling overwhelmed

- How to sequence projects instead of trying to tackle everything at once

- Using your "bonus brain" (system) to manage tasks effectively

- Moving projects to January (or later) isn't failing - it's smart planning

Key takeaways:

- Just because something is on your to-do list doesn't mean it needs to be done now

- Your system should support you by holding tasks until you're ready for them

- Daily engagement with your task management system is crucial

- Treat your project planning app like your email and calendar - check it daily

- Your task list reminds you of what YOU want, while email often shows what OTHERS want

Until next time, Shifters, keep making progress on what matters most to you!

Want help building your own system? Let's chat about how to assess and improve your bonus brain. Reach out for a consultation! Email me: Elise@EliseEnriquez.com

GQueues Task/Project Management App: https://gqz.page.link/H83oswp1dR3EEijA8

(This is an affiliate link. I do get a little bonus if you eventually sign up for the paid version of GQueues. It's enough for me to buy a Vegan Oat Bar at Cafe Ladro. ;-) But that's not why I'm recommending GQueues, I'm recommending it because I believe in it and use it every single day!)

Episode 125: Get off the Hamster Wheel with Rhythms

Schedule a private tour of the GYST Community: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=18005465&appointmentType=14362589

Hey Shifters! This week, I'm diving into the importance of creating rhythms in our lives to break out of that "hamster wheel" feeling we all sometimes get.

What I cover in this episode:

• My recent binge of Adam Grant's "Re:thinking" podcast (highly recommend!)
• Insights from Brian Chesky, CEO of Airbnb, on the power of rhythms
• How rhythms can bring back vibrancy, excitement, and curiosity to our lives
• The rhythms we use in the GYST Community:
• Weekly systems check (every Friday)
• Monthly "What Matters Most" planning sessions
•  Annual Planning Party (coming up - it's going to be TWO days this year!)

Big takeaway:

If you're feeling stuck on the hamster wheel of life, it might be time to introduce some intentional rhythms into your routine. Take time to pause, reflect, and plan - whether it's weekly, monthly, or yearly.

Want to join us?

If you're ready to hop off the treadmill and create some powerful rhythms in your life and work, consider joining us in the GYST Community!

Schedule a private tour of the GYST Community: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=18005465&appointmentType=14362589

Podcast recommendations:

If you're looking for a new listen, here are some of my favorite recent episodes from "Rethinking with Adam Grant":

• "A company is not a family with Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky"
• "The Art of Failure with David Duchovny" (May 6)
• "John Green Wants You to Pay Attention to Your Attention" (May 27)
• "Trevor Noah on the Importance of Context" (August 26)

Thanks for tuning in, Shifters! Keep making progress on what matters most to you. 💪

In this episode, I dive into a common challenge many of us face: the overwhelming feeling of returning to work after a vacation. Drawing from my own experiences at Microsoft and my current role as a productivity coach for small business owners, I explore strategies to ease the transition and regain control of your workload.

Key Points:

- The importance of buffer days when returning from vacation

- Why anxiety often stems from not knowing what's not getting done

- Strategies for processing accumulated tasks, emails, and notes

- The value of creating a re-entry plan focused on progress, not perfection

- How to break down overwhelming tasks into manageable chunks

Actionable Tips:

1. Tackle email backlogs one day at a time

2. Create intentional progress milestones and celebrate small wins

3. Consider implementing a weekly "systems check" to stay on top of tasks

If you're struggling with overwhelm in your life or business, I invite you to schedule a free 15-minute "Overcome Your Overwhelm" session with me. It's amazing what we can accomplish in just 15 minutes!

Remember, our focus should be on progress, not perfection. By understanding our needs and giving ourselves what we need, we can make meaningful progress on what matters most while remaining present to the people and opportunities around us.

If you found this episode helpful, please share it with someone who might benefit and consider rating the podcast to help it reach more people.

Until next week, keep making progress on what matters most to you!

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Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/theproductivityshift/

Schedule an Overcome Your Overwhelm session here:  https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=18005465&appointmentType=67813162  

Hey there, dear listeners! It's Elise Enriquez, and in this episode, we're revisiting a concept I introduced way back in my second episode of this podcast: my formula for intention. Let's dive into how clarity, communication, and consistency work together to create intentional actions and outcomes.

What We Covered:

1. My formula for intention: Clarity + Communication + Consistency = Intention

2. A recent "Overcoming Overwhelm" coaching session that perfectly illustrates this concept

3. The challenges of leadership transitions and clear handoffs

4. How we can sometimes contribute to our own frustrations without realizing it

5. Applying this formula to various aspects of our lives and work

Episode Highlights:

- I shared about my complimentary "Overcoming Overwhelm" coaching sessions and how they work

- We explored a case study of a leader struggling with handing off responsibilities

- I walked through the process of identifying the root cause of stress and overwhelm

- We discussed creating an effective onboarding document for leadership transitions

- I explained how to recognize when you might be contributing to your own frustration

Actionable Tips from Elise:

1. Identify the main source of your stress or overwhelm

2. Get crystal clear about what needs to be done and by when

3. Communicate your expectations clearly to those involved

4. Create systems or documents to support consistent action

5. Approach difficult conversations with humility and a willingness to improve

Resources for You:

- Want your own "Overcoming Overwhelm" session with me? Book one using the link in the show notes!

- Connect with me on Instagram @TheProductivityShift to share your sources of overwhelm

Your Next Steps:

1. Take a moment right now to identify your biggest source of stress

2. Apply my clarity, communication, and consistency formula to address it

3. If you found this episode helpful, I'd be so grateful if you left a positive review

4. Share your overwhelm experiences with me on Instagram or book a session for personalized help

Remember, my dear listeners, intentional actions lead to better outcomes in business, leadership, and personal life. Keep making progress on what matters most to you!

===============

Book a complimentary Overcome Your Overwhelm session here.

Let's connect on IG:  

https://www.instagram.com/theproductivityshift/

Hey Shifters! Ready to dive into the world of inbox zero?

In this episode, we're busting myths and spilling the tea on why your email inbox shouldn't be your to-do list's secret twin. Spoiler alert: It's causing more chaos than you might think!

We're introducing a cool new way to think about your inbox - the "triage" approach. Think of yourself as the ER nurse of your own email drama.

Curious about how to actually make inbox zero work for you without losing your mind? We've got the down-low on:

• Why aiming for inbox zero 24/7 is like trying to eat soup with a fork

• How to rock a weekly "systems check" that'll make you feel super organized

• Finding your inbox zero groove that vibes with your unique work style

Plus, we're sharing a real-life makeover story that'll have you itching to declutter your inbox!

By the end of this episode, you'll be ready to:

• Kiss email stress goodbye

• Become a productivity ninja

• Actually enjoy your work (gasp!) and have a life outside your inbox

So, are you ready to embark on your own inbox zero adventure? What experiment will you try this week? Let us know! 

Don't forget to leave us a glowing review if this episode sparked joy in your productivity-loving heart!

Let's get shifting!

======

If you need help coming up with your Inbox Zero experiment, let me know by emailing me at elise@eliseenriquez.com

And if you want to uncover your productivity personality, take the quiz!

https://www.eliseenriquez.com/quiz

Host: Elise Enriquez, Productivity Coach for business owners and their teams

This episode emphasizes the importance of a regular, structured time to review, plan, and get organized - the "systems check" that productivity coach Elise Enriquez has made a core part of her practice. She shares her personal experience with this transformative habit and encourages listeners to try it out, whether individually or as a team, to experience the benefits of staying on top of all the things.

- Discover the power of a weekly "Systems Check" to keep your productivity on track

- Learn how to build a "bonus brain" of tools and apps to capture and organize all the things you need to remember

- Understand how getting things "known" can alleviate anxiety about what's falling through the cracks, according to Elise's approach

- Explore the benefits of doing a weekly Systems Check with a community for accountability and support, as Elise does with her GYST Community

- Find out how to implement a Systems Check, even if you've fallen off the wagon before, based on Elise's advice

- Hear how a weekly Systems Check can help you wrap up your week and head into the weekend feeling accomplished, as Elise shares from her own experience

- Get tips on how teams can do a collaborative Systems Check to stay organized and aligned, as Elise suggests for business owners

Schedule a chat with Elise here: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule/d9c099fe/appointment/14362589/calendar/3104053?appointmentTypeIds[]=14362589

In this episode of the Productivity Shift Podcast, host Elise Enriquez shares an exclusive, never-aired interview with Erica Ng. They delve into topics including uncovering one’s purpose, mastering personality assessments, and effective productivity strategies. Elise discusses her transition from corporate to real estate to coaching, inspired by Simon Sinek's book 'Start with Why.' The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding and aligning personal and professional life with one’s ultimate purpose, the practical use of personality assessments like the Enneagram and Myers-Briggs, and developing tailored systems to enhance productivity. Elise also introduces her GYST program, which helps individuals create supportive, personalized productivity systems to make progress on what matters most.

00:00 Discovering Hidden Gems: Unearthing an Exclusive Interview

00:25 Welcome to the Productivity Shift Podcast

01:53 From Corporate to Coaching: My Journey

05:17 The Power of Purpose: Insights from Simon Sinek

08:04 Aligning Personal and Professional Purpose

16:02 Expressing Purpose in Different Roles

19:34 Embracing Your Purpose

19:53 Diving into Personality Tests

20:15 Productivity Personality Quiz https://www.eliseenriquez.com/quiz

21:05 Applying Personality Assessments

21:30 Understanding the Enneagram

24:49 The 5 A's Model

27:34 Connecting Daily Life with Purpose

28:50 Building Supportive Systems

32:30 Personalizing Productivity

35:59 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts

Book your tour of the GYST Community here. 

Summary: In this episode, Elise Enriquez, Productivity Coach and the host of the Productivity Shift Podcast, shares powerful tips on how to make the most of your summer months. She talks about how to let go of the pressure to attend every event, the importance of monthly planning sessions, and how her GYST program can help you get organized and stay motivated to achieve your goals.

Key Points:
- You get to decide what summer means to you.
- You don't have to attend every event or milestone. Sit down with your family and figure out what's truly important to each of you.
- Monthly planning sessions can help you stay on track with your goals and make progress on what matters most to you.
- Elise's GYST program is a community of like-minded people who support each other in achieving their goals. It's a powerful way to get organized and stay motivated on your journey to success. 

Book your private tour of the GYST Community here:  

https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=18005465&appointmentType=14362589

In this episode, Elise chats with Diann Wingert, a psychotherapist turned coach who works with female solo entrepreneurs. They cover a range of topics, including therapy versus coaching, career changes, rejection by church, menopause, divorce, ADHD, and more.

The conversation is centered around Diann's life journey and the choices she made along the way. Elise introduces her "What Matters Most" model of intention, which includes Clarity, Communication, and Consistency, and applies it to people's stories.

Diann talks about her three careers, three marriages, and three kids, and how she had to turn to herself to give herself permission to navigate her unique path. They discuss the pressure to hold onto something and the expectation to pick and stick to a particular path in life.

The conversation is fun, engaging, and insightful, offering a fresh perspective on navigating life's changes while staying true to oneself.

Learn more about Diann here:

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-driven-woman-entrepreneur/id1513039926
Website:  https://www.diannwingertcoaching.com/
LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/diannwingertcoaching/

Take Diann's Quiz:

What’s Holding You Back? Quiz http://bit.ly/obstaclesquiz

Quiz takers will receive a customized (short) series of emails with links to resources with their specific challenge in mind

In this episode of the Productivity Shift podcast, host Elise Enriquez, a certified life coach and productivity expert, discusses the common phrase "I just need to" and why it might not be as helpful as we think. As a productivity coach, she shares her insights on how to move past procrastination and make meaningful shifts in productivity.

[00:00:00] Introduction: In Episode 116 of the Productivity Shift podcast, host Elise Enriquez explores the common productivity phrase "I just need to" and its impact on progress.

[00:01:00] Identifying Procrastination Triggers: Elise discusses triggers that lead to procrastination and offers insights into reframing our approach to overcome it.

[00:03:00] Navigating Procrastination: Learn how asking targeted questions helps uncover the underlying significance of tasks and move towards meaningful progress.

[00:06:00] Practical Strategies for Productivity: Elise shares practical tips for breaking down projects and taking intentional action towards productivity goals.

[00:09:00] Conclusion and Call to Action: Discover your productivity personality type through a quiz on Elise's website and join her next week for more strategies on making progress.

---

What’s Your Productivity Personality? 

Take this 2-minute quiz to uncover your strengths (and snags) on the way to getting sh*t done—so you can accomplish your goals AND enjoy the journey. 

https://www.eliseenriquez.com/quiz

Before we dig in, be sure to check out the "What's Your Productivity Personality?" quiz at: https://www.eliseenriquez.com/quiz

===============

In this episode, Elise reflects on the relationship between productivity and personal fulfillment. She explores the idea of treating productivity as a vengeful god and suggests alternative perspectives. Join her as she discusses prioritizing values, honoring limits, and finding balance in life.

She references Ep 304 of the We Can do Hard Things Podcast with Glennon Doyle, Abby Wambach, and Amanda Doyle.

You can listen to that episode here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/break-up-with-busyness-let-go-of-your-to-do-list/id1564530722?i=1000654000949

---

[00:00:00] Introduction

Elise shares Amanda Doyle's thought-provoking quote on productivity from the "We Can Do Hard Things" podcast. She sets the stage for an exploration of the connection between productivity and personal fulfillment.

[00:01:00] Taking Time Off

Elise recaps her recent vacation to Costa Rica and the perspective it brought. She also highlights an interesting episode she listened to during her break, titled "Breakup with Busy-ness and Let Go of Your To-Do List."

[00:03:00] A Different Take on Productivity

Elise acknowledges the historical ties of productivity to capitalism and patriarchy. She emphasizes her belief in a different approach that focuses on making progress on what truly matters while remaining present in our lives.

[00:06:00] Making Choices and Setting Priorities

Elise discusses the importance of aligning our to-do lists with our values and finding joy in our tasks. She urges listeners to prioritize and make intentional choices.

[00:09:00] Honoring Your Limits

Elise highlights the significance of listening to our bodies and understanding our limits. She offers support in developing effective systems for prioritizing and managing our time.

[00:11:00] Creating Your Own Criteria for Success

Elise encourages listeners to define their own purposes and values, rather than relying on external measures of success. She shares a practical method introduced by Amanda to determine the impact of each task on our lives.

[00:12:00] Embracing Personal Responsibility

Elise concludes by urging listeners to take responsibility for their own success and fulfillment. She reminds them to prioritize what truly matters and find balance in life.

---

That's it for this episode! If you enjoyed it, don't forget to review and share. Stay tuned for more episodes focused on making progress and finding fulfillment.

Hey there, lovely listeners! Ready for another deep dive into the fascinating world of the Enneagram? If you've been following our recent episodes, you're in for a treat today as we explore the head types in Enneagram: types Five, Six, and Seven.

Elise Enriquez, your productivity coach and host of the Productivity Shift podcast, is here to help you navigate the complexities of life and work with a bit of Enneagram wisdom this week.

In case you missed it, we've been on a journey exploring the Enneagram system, focusing on the "above the line" and "below the line" model.

This model helps us understand our mental and emotional states, guiding us to respond more intentionally in various situations.

Be sure to check out our previous episodes for a fuller picture, especially episode 111, which lays the groundwork for the "above the line" and "below the line" concept.

I'm thrilled to continue our Enneagram series with Lisa Alessi, our resident Enneagram expert, to delve into the head center types today. Lisa brings her wealth of knowledge and insights, making our Enneagram journey both enlightening and practical.

Understanding the Head Center Types

- Lisa breaks down the head types (Five, Six, and Seven) and their distinctive characteristics.

Type Five - The Observer

 - Deep thinkers who love knowledge and understanding how things work.

 - Great observers but tend to withdraw and struggle with overwhelm and sharing information.

Type Six - The Skeptic

 - Insightful minds focused on trust and anticipating problems.

 - They can be risk-averse or counterphobic, challenging authority at times.

Type Seven - The Enthusiast

 - Life enthusiasts who crave variety, excitement, and new experiences.

 - Initiators with many ideas but struggle with follow-through and prioritization.

Elise and Lisa share personal anecdotes and practical tips for each type, highlighting the nuances of Enneagram understanding in real life.

They emphasize the importance of self-awareness, balancing mental and emotional responses, and intentional decision-making based on Enneagram insights.

RESOURCES

Take Elise's "What's My Productivity Personality Quiz" to uncover your productivity strengths and roadblocks: https://www.eliseenriquez.com/quiz

Above the Line/Below the Line Video:

Locating Yourself - A Key to Conscious Leadership

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fLqzYDZAqCI

More About Lisa Alessi

www.renaissanceleader.com

Lisa's Bio

Lisa Alessi is a leadership and team development coach with over 30 years of experience working in a consultative capacity with people in a wide range of industries and sectors. Whether working with people in career transition or wanting to advance their leadership capacity with greater ease and grace, Lisa loves helping people determine their next steps with depth of clarity and intentionality.

In working with leaders and their teams, Lisa guides them to connect more meaningfully with themselves and the communities they serve through engaging group experiences.

Lisa is skilled at reading between the lines to get below the surface of what truly motivates people, their patterns of success, critical to effective leadership and achieving their goals and aligning with organizational strategy. Lisa’s key strengths include unlocking behaviors that hold leaders back, building strong relationships by partnering with clients, generating perspective and appreciation, facilitating team growth, coaching and mentoring, and leading change with resilience.

Lisa has a BS in Zoology from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst and numerous trainings, certifications and coursework in the areas of leadership development, conflict mediation, relational dynamics, Appreciative Inquiry, Enneagram applications, positive psychology, emotional resilience and energy management.

Please note that this is part 3 of a 4-part series. I recommend listening to Ep 111 to understand Above-the-Line and Below-the-line concepts.

In this episode of The Productivity Shift Podcast, host and productivity coach Elise Enriquez dives deep into the Enneagram and its relationship with productivity. Joined by expert Lisa Alessi, they explore the heart center types: Two, Three, and Four and what it looks like for each type to be above the line and below the line.

Episode Outline:

Heart center types (Two, Three, Four) filter information through emotional and relational intelligence.

Type Two: The Helper

 - Motivated by making connections and being liked.

 - Focuses on meeting others' needs and orchestrating their lives.

 - Above the line, balances own needs with others' needs effectively.

 - Below the line, may become overly focused on others' needs and intrude on boundaries.

Type Three: The Achiever

 - Driven by achieving goals and being successful.

 - Task-oriented and results-driven.

 - Above the line, efficient and effective, balancing work and personal values.

 - Below the line, may neglect communication and burn out from excessive task focus.

Type Four: The Individualist

 - Values uniqueness and deep connection.

 - Highly connected to emotions, may struggle with feeling defective or melancholic.

 - Above the line, compassionate and creative, able to channel emotional energy into productivity.

 - Below the line, may become overly attached to intense emotions and struggle with taking action.

Stay tuned for the next episode where we conclude our Enneagram series and explore more strategies for shifting your productivity mindset. Until then, keep making progress on what matters most to you!

RESOURCES

Take Elise's "What's My Productivity Personality Quiz" to uncover your productivity strengths and roadblocks: https://www.eliseenriquez.com/quiz

Above the Line/Below the Line Video:

Locating Yourself - A Key to Conscious Leadership

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fLqzYDZAqCI

More About Lisa Alessi

www.renaissanceleader.com

Lisa's Bio

Lisa Alessi is a leadership and team development coach with over 30 years of experience working in a consultative capacity with people in a wide range of industries and sectors. Whether working with people in career transition or wanting to advance their leadership capacity with greater ease and grace, Lisa loves helping people determine their next steps with depth of clarity and intentionality.

In working with leaders and their teams, Lisa guides them to connect more meaningfully with themselves and the communities they serve through engaging group experiences.

Lisa is skilled at reading between the lines to get below the surface of what truly motivates people, their patterns of success, critical to effective leadership and achieving their goals and aligning with organizational strategy. Lisa’s key strengths include unlocking behaviors that hold leaders back, building strong relationships by partnering with clients, generating perspective and appreciation, facilitating team growth, coaching and mentoring, and leading change with resilience.

Lisa has a BS in Zoology from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst and numerous trainings, certifications and coursework in the areas of leadership development, conflict mediation, relational dynamics, Appreciative Inquiry, Enneagram applications, positive psychology, emotional resilience and energy management.

=============

Episode 112: Enneagram and Productivity: Body Types (8, 9, 1) with Lisa Alessi

Host: Elise Enriquez

Productivity Coach

Founder of the GYST Program

IG: https://www.instagram.com/theproductivityshift/

Interview with Lisa Alessi:

 - Lisa provides an overview of the Enneagram, highlighting its ability to uncover deep motivations and belief systems.

 - Discusses the concept of "above the line" and "below the line" behavior in relation to Enneagram types.

 - Explains the triads of the Enneagram, specifically focusing on the body types: 8, 9, and 1.

Type 8: The Protector (Boss):

 - Characteristics include assertiveness, truth-telling, and a focus on power and justice.

 - Above-the-line behavior involves clear communication and empowerment of others.

 - Below-the-line behavior may manifest as intense anger and confrontation.

Type 9: The Peacekeeper (Mediator):

 - Known for seeking harmony and avoiding conflict.

 - Above the line, they excel in collaboration and seeing multiple perspectives.

 - Below the line, they may struggle with procrastination and passive-aggressiveness.

Type 1: The Perfectionist (Improver):

 - Characteristics include a strong sense of responsibility, adherence to standards, and self-criticism.

 - Above the line, they demonstrate reliability and hold themselves and others to high standards.

 - Below the line, they may experience frustration, rigidity, and perfectionism.

Overall Insights and Recommendations:

Use the "Where are you on the line?" tool to assess behavior.

RESOURCES

Above the Line/Below the Line Video:

Locating Yourself - A Key to Conscious Leadership

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fLqzYDZAqCI

More About Lisa Alessi

www.renaissanceleader.com

Lisa's Bio

Lisa Alessi is a leadership and team development coach with over 30 years of experience working in a consultative capacity with people in a wide range of industries and sectors. Whether working with people in career transition or wanting to advance their leadership capacity with greater ease and grace, Lisa loves helping people determine their next steps with depth of clarity and intentionality.

In working with leaders and their teams, Lisa guides them to connect more meaningfully with themselves and the communities they serve through engaging group experiences.

Lisa is skilled at reading between the lines to get below the surface of what truly motivates people, their patterns of success, critical to effective leadership and achieving their goals and aligning with organizational strategy. Lisa’s key strengths include unlocking behaviors that hold leaders back, building strong relationships by partnering with clients, generating perspective and appreciation, facilitating team growth, coaching and mentoring, and leading change with resilience.

Lisa has a BS in Zoology from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst and numerous trainings, certifications and coursework in the areas of leadership development, conflict mediation, relational dynamics, Appreciative Inquiry, Enneagram applications, positive psychology, emotional resilience and energy management.

==========================

Episode 111: Where are you? - Embracing Change and Cultivating Growth with Lisa Alessi

Introduction:

This episode kicks off a 4-episode series with Leadership Coach and Consultant Lisa Alessi where we'll explore a developmental concept called "Above the Line and Below the Line" and how this concept applies to the 9 Enneagram types.

Main Discussion Points:

1. Above the Line vs. Below the Line: Elise and Lisa delve into the distinction between operating above the line, where productivity and creativity thrive, and operating below the line, where reactions are driven by stress and triggers.
2. Navigating Emotional Responses: The conversation explores how emotions like anger and joy can manifest both above and below the line, highlighting the importance of emotional agility and mindfulness in choosing constructive responses.
3. Practical Tools for Resilience: Lisa shares practical tools for recognizing and navigating shifts between above and below the line states, including pausing, breathing, and getting curious about your emotions and reactions.
4. The Role of the Enneagram: While the episode introduces the Enneagram, further exploration is teased for subsequent episodes, where each Enneagram type's tendencies above and below the line will be discussed in detail.

We'll all be above the line or below the line every day. The goal isn't to be above the line all the time, the goal is to recognize when you are above the line, take a breath and reset to get yourself above the line again.

Stay tuned over the next 3 episodes to explore what each enneagram type looks like above the line and below the line.

RESOURCES

Above the Line/Below the Line Video:

Locating Yourself - A Key to Conscious Leadership

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fLqzYDZAqCI

More About Lisa Alessi

www.renaissanceleader.com

Lisa's Bio

Lisa Alessi is a leadership and team development coach with over 30 years of experience working in a consultative capacity with people in a wide range of industries and sectors. Whether working with people in career transition or wanting to advance their leadership capacity with greater ease and grace, Lisa loves helping people determine their next steps with depth of clarity and intentionality.

In working with leaders and their teams, Lisa guides them to connect more meaningfully with themselves and the communities they serve through engaging group experiences.

Lisa is skilled at reading between the lines to get below the surface of what truly motivates people, their patterns of success, critical to effective leadership and achieving their goals and aligning with organizational strategy. Lisa’s key strengths include unlocking behaviors that hold leaders back, building strong relationships by partnering with clients, generating perspective and appreciation, facilitating team growth, coaching and mentoring, and leading change with resilience.

Lisa has a BS in Zoology from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst and numerous trainings, certifications and coursework in the areas of leadership development, conflict mediation, relational dynamics, Appreciative Inquiry, Enneagram applications, positive psychology, emotional resilience and energy management.

EP 110: Behind the Scenes of the "What's Your Productivity Personality?" Quiz

In this episode of the Productivity Shift Podcast, host Elise Enriquez takes listeners behind the scenes of her latest creation: the "What's Your Productivity Personality?" quiz. Join Elise as she reveals the why, what, and how behind this innovative tool designed to help individuals unlock their unique productivity styles.

Why the Quiz Was Created:

Discover the driving forces behind the creation of the "What's Your Productivity Personality?" quiz. From audience growth to providing valuable insights in a quick, easy-to-digest format, Elise shares the transparent reasons behind developing this transformative tool.

What the Quiz Entails:

Dive into the essence of the quiz and what sets it apart from traditional personality assessments. Learn about the quick, actionable nature of the quiz, its format, and the four distinct productivity personalities it uncovers. Get ready to explore your productivity potential like never before.

How to Take the Quiz:

Find out how listeners can access and take the "What's Your Productivity Personality?" quiz. Elise provides a step-by-step guide, including where to find the quiz, what to expect during the process, and how to leverage the results to kickstart your productivity journey.

Join Elise as she invites listeners on a journey of self-discovery and productivity enhancement through the lens of her innovative quiz. Don't miss this insightful episode packed with actionable tips, heartfelt anecdotes, and empowering insights. Tune in now to unlock your productivity personality and transform the way you approach your goals!

Resources

Take the Quiz:https://www.eliseenriquez.com/quiz

Follow Elise on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theproductivityshift/

Linda Sidhu's Quiz Building Program: https://www.lindasidhu.com/quiz-lab

February 14th at 12pm Pacific.

Go to this link for more details and to register: 

=============================

Episode 109: "Cracking the Personality Code: Navigating Assessments with Purpose"

Welcome back to the Productivity Shift Podcast, Shifters! In this episode, your host Elise Enriquez, a certified life coach and productivity enthusiast, dives into the world of personality assessments. Get ready for a journey of self-discovery and understanding as Elise shares insights on how to approach assessments with intention and make the most out of the results.

Key Points

Intention Matters:

  - Understand the intention behind taking a personality assessment—whether it's personal curiosity or a group requirement.

  - Clarify your goals and intentions before diving into the assessment to ensure a meaningful experience.

Solo Reflection:

  - Whenever possible, take personality assessments on your own terms and in a mindset conducive to honest responses.

  - Discuss the importance of the right environment and mindset for accurate results.

Private Debriefs:

  - Emphasize the significance of private debrief sessions, especially for intact teams.

  - Prioritize individual understanding before group discussions to maintain a safe and respectful environment.

Results are Hypotheses:

  - Remind yourself and others that assessment results are snapshots of a single day's responses.

  - Treat the outcomes as hypotheses, paving the way for further exploration and self-discovery.

Leverage the Information:

  - Once you identify your personality type, explore ways to leverage this knowledge for personal and professional growth.

  - Encourage continuous learning and experimentation based on assessment insights.

What are your personality assessment horror stories? Or wins? DM Elise on Instagram atTheProductivityShift

Remember, Shifters, your personality is a unique code waiting to be unraveled—let the productivity adventure begin!

**************

Episode 108: Assessment Backfire: Unseen Risks and the Dark Side of Knowing Your Type

Welcome to another episode of The Productivity Shift, hosted by Elise Enriquez. In Episode 108, Elise takes you on a journey through the intricate world of personality assessments, unraveling the hidden risks that often accompany the pursuit of self-discovery. From Myers-Briggs to Enneagram, the allure of understanding oneself can sometimes backfire, revealing the limitations of these assessments.

Segment 1: The Illusion of Objectivity

Elise kicks off the episode by addressing a fundamental limitation of personality assessments – their reliance on self-reporting. She discusses the pitfalls of basing results on answers provided on a single day, especially when individuals might be facing crises or lacking self-awareness.

Segment 2: Lack of Professional Guidance

The exploration continues as Elise sheds light on the absence of trained professionals in the assessment process. Many individuals take assessments without the guidance of experts, potentially leading to misinterpretation or unhelpful labeling.

Segment 3: Unused Results and Missed Opportunities

Elise delves into the common scenario where individuals receive their assessment results but fail to take meaningful action. Whether it's due to a lack of understanding or a group workshop dynamic, the valuable insights gathered often remain untapped.

Segment 4: Personality as an Excuse

The episode discusses a significant concern – the tendency for individuals to use their personality type as an excuse for behavior, reinforcing stereotypes and hindering personal growth.

Segment 5: Balancing Critique with Value

Elise explores the positive aspects of personality assessments when approached mindfully. She emphasizes the importance of using assessments as tools for self-discovery and understanding others.

Conclusion:

Wrapping up the episode, Elise introduces an upcoming event – the "Productivity Personality Premiere." While recognizing the potential pitfalls, she aims to provide a fun and insightful experience for listeners to explore their productivity personalities in a new way.

Go here to attend: https://www.eliseenriquez.com/premier

Outro:

Thank you for joining Elise Enriquez in this exploration of the hidden risks associated with personality assessments. If you found this episode thought-provoking, don't forget to share it with a friend and stay tuned for more discussions on productivity and self-discovery on The Productivity Shift.

Past episodes I mention

Ep 13 - get the scoop on how I came to find the Burning Bowl Ritual
https://www.eliseenriquez.com/podcasts/the-productivity-shift/episodes/2147658485

Ep 55 - Interview: Finding Forgiveness with Brenda Reiss
https://www.eliseenriquez.com/podcasts/the-productivity-shift/episodes/2147822346

# Productivity Shift Podcast - Episode 107: Out with the B.S., in with the goodness - Burning Bowl

Introduction

🔥 Welcome to Episode 107 of the Productivity Shift Podcast! I'm your host, Elise Enriquez, your go-to guide for intentional living, productivity hacks, and getting your sh*t together. Today, we're delving into a cherished tradition close to my heart—the Burning Bowl Ritual. Let's dive in!

About the Productivity Shift Podcast

If you're a woman in charge juggling business, leadership, and family, this podcast is your sanctuary. Tune in to take control of your time, make progress on what truly matters, and navigate the complexities of life.

Introducing the Burning Bowl Ritual

🎙️ Hey, shifters! Elise here, a bit under the weather, but nothing can stop me from sharing one of my favorite rituals—the Burning Bowl. Rather than strain my voice, I'm revisiting a past episode to guide you through this transformative practice.

Episode Release and Resources

📅 Originally released in December 2022, this Burning Bowl Ritual adapts seamlessly for the new year. Head to eliseenriquez.com/burn for a free PDF guide to accompany this episode.

What is the Burning Bowl Ritual?

🔍 Burning Bowl is a potent ritual for releasing negativity and embracing new beginnings. Simply put, you write what you want to release, then burn it. Today, I'll guide you through the what, why, when, and how of my version.

Why Should You Do the Burning Bowl Ritual?

🌟 Use the Burning Bowl to let go of regrets, shift mindset, and open up to inspiration. It's intentional, reflective, and, hey, if the woo-woo works, embrace it!

When to Do the Burning Bowl Ritual

📆 While commonly done at year-end, adapt it for any transition or when ready to release. The key? Choose a peaceful moment, and do it when you genuinely feel positive.

Who Can Participate in the Burning Bowl Ritual?

👥 Whether solo or with loved ones, choose those who support growth. It's not for naysayers—this ritual is for those who take it seriously.

Where Can You Do the Burning Bowl Ritual?

🌳 Create a peaceful space, indoors or outdoors. Safety first! If outdoors, fire pits or fireplaces work wonders. Be mindful and smart about your choices.

How to Do the Burning Bowl Ritual - Step by Step

1. **Create Your Space:** Gather writing tools, two printed pages, matches/lighter, and safety measures.

2. **Get Grounded and Intentional:** Breathe deeply, set intentions using provided mantras.

3. **Write Down What You Want to Release:** Focus on what you can control, use the Burn Page.

4. **Burn the Page:** Safely ignite and visualize negativity transforming into the ether.

5. **Stay Open:** Embrace inspiration, set goals, and find a guiding word or phrase.

Share Your Experience

📸 Share your Burning Bowl experience on Instagram. Tag @theproductivityshift and use #BurningBowl. Let's inspire each other on this intentional living journey.

🚀 If you love the Productivity Shift Podcast, share it with someone who needs a productivity boost. Spread the wisdom and help others take charge of their time.

Thanks for joining me.

EP 106: The January Effect - Tapping into the Energy of New Beginnings

Leveraging the January Effect for a Fresh Start

In this episode of the Productivity Shift Podcast, host Elise Enriquez discusses the concept of using the 'January effect' to have a fresh start in the new year or at any time of your choosing. She emphasizes ditching New Year’s resolutions and instead, seeking long sustainable change. Drawing from Katy Milkman’s book 'How to Change,' Elise shares that people feel more distant from their past failures during fresh start moments, making them feel more capable and driving them forward. She encourages listeners to leverage the new year for a fresh start. 

00:01 Introduction and New Year's Reflection
00:38 Welcome to the Productivity Shift Podcast
02:52 The Power of Fresh Start Moments
04:27 Creating Your Own Fresh Start Moments
04:49 The January Effect: A New Approach to New Year's Resolutions
05:55 Sustainable Change and the GYST Community
06:55 Invitation to Join the GYST Community
07:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Need help with your fresh start? DM me on Instagram.

Want a private tour of the GYST Community? Click here.

Join us for the next GYST Community Open House: https://www.eliseenriquez.com/openhouse

Welcome to the Productivity Shift Podcast, your guide to overcoming challenges and achieving your goals. I'm your host, Elise Enriquez, a certified life coach and the creator of the GIST program.

Setting the Scene:

In this episode, let's draw parallels between embarking on a journey to an unfamiliar destination and navigating the intricacies of life's goals. Just as we rely on GPS for driving, we explore the necessity of creating a personal GPS for success in various aspects of life.

Gathering:

Consider the significance of gathering all your tasks, goals, and priorities in one centralized place. Reflecting on past experiences as a real estate agent, I share insights gained from utilizing GPS for house hunting. Gathering information lays the foundation for effective decision-making.

Processing:

We delve into the concept that "buyers are liars," understanding how preferences evolve through experience. The GPS comprises three crucial steps: Gathering, Processing, and Systems (GPS). Learn to make conscious choices about actions and responsibilities, ensuring intentional progress.

Systems:

Explore the integration of gathered information into systems for effective organization. Regular check-ins on these systems are vital, promoting conscious decision-making and sustained progress. True productivity extends beyond mere task completion, encompassing a holistic approach to achieving what matters most.

GYST Community Invitation:

Join the GYST Community for continuous support, systems development, and accountability. Our next open house on January 3rd at 12:00 PM Pacific offers an opportunity to learn more.

Closing:

As the year comes to a close, I express gratitude to our listeners. Taking a brief holiday break, we'll return with a new episode on January 1st, ready to kick off the new year. Your feedback and suggestions for future episodes in 2024 are always welcome.

Happy holidays, and I'll catch you in the new year!

See you on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theproductivityshift/

https://www.eliseenriquez.com/openhouse    

=====================

Episode 104: What GYST actually stands for...shift what productivity means to you

Hey, fabulous listeners! Get ready for a heart-to-heart with your guide, Elise Enriquez, as we uncover the essence of productivity, the journey behind GYST, and the transformative power of intentional living.

🌱 Origins Unveiled:

Dive into the roots of GYST – from childhood organization quirks to a pivotal moment during Elise's divorce. Discover how a free 12-week challenge evolved into a comprehensive course, shaped by the need for systems aligned with genuine happiness.

🌈 The GYST Community Open House:

Mark your calendars for December 13th! Elise invites you to an open house extravaganza. Explore the GYST Community, hear testimonials, and stand a chance to win delicious cookies. Reserve your spot at EliseEnriquez.com/open

✨ Decoding GYST:

Unveil the real meaning behind GYST – not just initials for getting organized but a mindset shift. Impact, Progress, Acceptance, Action, and Collaboration are the pillars that redefine productivity. It's about making strides on what matters while embracing acceptance and collaboration.

🚀 Reflect on What You Stand For:

As the year winds down, Elise encourages introspection. What do you stand for? How can GYST help you align actions with aspirations? Consider joining the GYST Community to infuse your life with intention and support.

🌟 Conclusion:

Join Elise on this transformative journey – not just about to-do lists but about crafting a life that resonates with your true self. It's the perfect blend of wisdom, warmth, and a dash of magic. (LOL...chatgpt wrote that last one!)

Time Stamps for quick reference:

- Introduction: 0:00

- Origin Story of GYST: 2:05

- GYST Community Open House: 10:12

- Beyond Balderdash Game: 15:50

- Introduction to GYST: 20:16

- Impact, Progress, Acceptance, Action, and Collaboration: 27:55

- Reflection and Invitation to the GYST Community: 35:40

EP 103: Beyond the Hype - The Real Deal with Productivity Hacks

🎙️ **Episode Overview:**

Hey there Shifters! Get ready to dive into a chat with your host, Elise Enriquez, where we unravel the magic behind life hacks, productivity tricks, and the grand strategies that make our goals pop! It's like a cozy coffee date where we spill the beans on the Pomodoro Technique, batching, time-blocking, and the two-minute rule—all the cool kids in the productivity world.

🚀 **Join the Fun:**

We're not just talking tactics; we're talking real-life wins and oopsies. Ever wondered if those quick productivity fixes are your true BFFs or potential frenemies? Elise's got the scoop on how to make them work for you without the drama.

💡 **Discover the Magic:**

Elise spills the tea on why your productivity journey needs a strategy. It's not just about getting things done; it's about creating a life that feels as good as it looks on paper. Elise shares how aligning your hacks with a bigger picture can be a game-changer.

🌟 **Be Our Guest:**

Oh, did we mention a little soiree? Elise invites you to the GYST community open house – a place where strategies and tactics throw a party. No need to RSVP; just bring your curiosity and good vibes. Peek inside at https://www.eliseenriquez.com/openhouse.

✨ **Wrap-Up:**

Join us for a chat that's not just about productivity but about making life sparkle a bit more.

00:00 Introduction to Productivity Hacks

00:35 Welcome to the Productivity Shift Podcast

01:18 Understanding Productivity Hacks

03:00 Differentiating Between Tactics and Strategies

04:30 Break and Invitation to the GYST Community

06:11 Pros and Cons of Productivity Hacks

07:16 Risks of Using Productivity Hacks in Isolation

09:01 Aligning Productivity Hacks with Your Life Strategy

09:19 Invitation to the GYST Community Open House

09:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Planning for Productivity: Annual Planning Party

In this episode of the 'Productivity Shift Podcast', host Elise Enriquez talks about an upcoming annual planning party taking place from November 14th through 16th. She goes into detail about the annual planning process, that is divided into three steps: reflection, vision, and planning.

She uses quotes from influential women like Dolly Parton, Gloria Steinem, and Taylor Swift to explain each phase.

She also shares personal experiences and tools, such as the annual planning workbook and the neuyear calendars. https://www.neuyear.net/

Elise highlights the importance of reflection, creating a vision for the next year that one would be excited about, and planning for reality while dreaming big. E

lise promotes the planning party, detailing what attendees can expect, including an annual planning guidebook, recordings of the sessions, and follow-up Q & A sessions.

The episode ends with Elise encouraging listeners to join the planning party for setting up a productive and fulfilling year ahead.

00:01 Countdown to the Planning Party

00:19 Introduction to the Productivity Shift Podcast

00:56 The Excitement of Annual Planning

02:09 The Three-Step Process: Reflect, Vision, and Plan

02:31 The Importance of Reflection

05:12 Creating a Vision for 2024

08:03 The Planning Phase

10:51 Details about the Planning Party

13:16 Closing Remarks and Future Topics

https://www.eliseenriquez.com/plan

The early bird rate is live through October.

========

I'm still buzzing from a three-day planning retreat, and I can't wait to spill all the details. Trust me, thinking about 2024 now is a game-changer! Tune in to this week's episode where we dive deep into why early planning sets the stage for a phenomenal year ahead. 🗓️

As always, I'm Elisa Enriquez, your go-to productivity coach, here to help you make strides in what truly matters while cherishing every moment. Let's get back on track and create a life that truly resonates with you! 💪

P.S. If you're as excited as I am about planning, join me for the Planning Party happening from Nov 14-16. Early bird tickets are just $49 until the end of October! 🎉 Check out EliseEnriquez.com/plan for all the deets. Can't wait to have you on board! 🚀 #PlanYourSuccess #ProductivityShiftPodcast

- [03:02] The impact of effective planning
- [03:42] Reason 1: Building excitement for the future
- [04:30] Reason 2: Getting ahead of the game in January
- [05:20] Reason 3: Finding clarity about the end of the year
- [06:10] Details of the planning party
- [06:50] Early bird pricing
- [12:05] How to get a ticket
- [13:45] Wrapping up the episode
- [14:10] Encouragement to make progress on what matters most

It's official, we got to 100 episodes.

And as a celebration of 100 episodes, I invited my favorite podcaster to be a guest: Michelle Mazur.

Michelle is the founder of The Expert Up Club, a highly engaging and productive community that supports experts to improve their messaging and marketing so they can attract clients they love to work with.

To join the next Expert Up Club open house, go here:  https://communication-rebel.ck.page/fae6ae7193 

To listen to Michelle's podcast Make Marketing Suck Less, go here:  https://drmichellemazur.com/blog 

AND if you are ready to plan 2024, join me for The Planning Party, you can sign up here: 

OK, here's the outline of this week's episode:

• Intro

  • Elise celebrates reaching 100 episodes.
  • Introduces special guest Michelle Mazer, a messaging expert.
  • Highlights the mission of The Productivity Shift Podcast.

• Gratitude to Listeners

  • Elise expresses heartfelt thanks to her listeners.
  • Emphasizes the joy of sharing insights and learnings.

• Transition to Expert Up Club

  • Elise announces Michelle Mazer's return and introduces the Expert Up Club.
  • Describes it as a community for experts to refine messaging and marketing.

• The Expert Up Club's Purpose

  • Michelle shares motivations behind starting the club.
  • Stresses the value of collaboration in marketing.

• Benefits of Community

  • Michelle talks about collective intelligence within the Expert Up Club.
  • Discusses the power of shared language and values.
  • Reflects on the transformational impact of community feedback.

• Cyclical Nature of Business and Marketing

  • Elise and Michelle discuss the constant need for refinement in messaging and marketing.
  • Stress the importance of revisiting fundamentals and adjusting strategies.

• Transition to Open House

  • Elise segues to the upcoming Open House for the Expert Up Club.
  • Encourages interested individuals to attend for a transparent view.

• Shared Language and Resilience

  • Elise emphasizes the importance of shared language in the community.
  • Highlights the resilience of their models in adapting to shifts.

• Closing Remarks and Gratitude

  • Elise expresses deep gratitude to Michelle for her influence and support.
  • Thanks listeners for being part of the journey to 100 episodes.

• Outro and Invitation to Join

  • Elise invites listeners to explore the Expert Up Club through the Open House.
  • Encourages those who thrive with planning to join her Planning Party.

• Closing

  • Elise signs off, leaving listeners with the message to keep making progress on what matters most.

OK, onto the episode:

Embrace the cozy vibes of fall with Elise Enriquez, your go-to productivity coach and host of the Productivity Shift podcast. In this episode, we dive headfirst into the fascinating realm of productivity identity.

What labels do you affix to yourself? Are you the reliable dynamo or the occasional scatterbrain?

Elise unravels the profound impact of these identity tags and how they shape our productivity habits.

Drawing from James Clear's insights, she guides us through a transformative journey, revealing that true change emanates from within.

Join Elise as she empowers us to vote for the best version of ourselves and make strides towards a more fulfilling, intentional life. Don't miss out on this empowering conversation!

**[00:00:00] Introduction: Who Are You?**

- Elise kicks off with a series of thought-provoking questions about the listener's self-perception regarding productivity.

- She introduces the significance of identity labels and their role within the GYST productivity community.

**[00:01:34] Embracing Fall and Exploring Identity**

- Elise shares her personal feelings about the fall season, adding a touch of humor to connect with the audience.

- She transitions smoothly into the main topic of the episode: exploring and understanding one's identity.

**[00:02:30] The Layers of Behavior Change**

- Elise explains James Clear's three-layered model for behavior change: Outcomes, Process, and Identity.

- She highlights the central role of identity in sustaining behavioral shifts.

**[00:04:04] The Power of "I Am" Statements**

- Elise emphasizes the significance of "I am" statements in shaping one's identity and behavior.

- She warns against affiliating with negative productivity identities and discusses the brain's role in affirming self-beliefs.

**[00:05:31] Unearthing Unconscious Beliefs**

- Elise encourages listeners to become aware of their unconscious beliefs about themselves.

- She prompts reflection on habitual "I am" statements and their impact on self-perception.

**[00:06:28] Deciding and Proving: The Two-Step Process**

- Elise shares Clear's two-step process for identity shift: Decide who you want to be and prove it with small wins.

- She guides listeners in envisioning their ideal productivity identity and taking actionable steps towards it.

**[00:08:24] Voting for Your Identity**

- Elise stresses that every action is a vote for one's identity and encourages aligning actions with desired self-perception.

- She advocates for celebrating small wins and acknowledges the power of consistent, intentional action.

**[00:11:12] Formulating Your New Identity**

- Elise offers an exercise to help listeners craft an introduction that reflects their evolving identity.

- She highlights the significance of verbalizing and internalizing the new productivity identity.

**[00:12:53] Joining the GYST Community**

- Elise introduces the GYST Community as a supportive space for identity and behavior change.

- She invites interested individuals to apply for enrollment, emphasizing the benefits of surrounding oneself with like-minded individuals.

**[00:14:23] Closing Thoughts and Call to Action**

- Elise leaves listeners with a call to make conscious choices about their productivity identity.

- She emphasizes the transformative power of intentional action and encourages listeners to believe in their potential for change.

**[00:14:40] Outro: Join the GYST Community**

- Elise thanks listeners for tuning in and invites them to explore the GYST Community for further support in their productivity journey.

If this episode inspires you to Get Your Shit Together, feel free to schedule a chat with me here:

https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=18005465&appointmentType=14362589

---

"Time passes, whether I stand still or move."

Poet Anne Barngrover's words hold a truth we often overlook. Today, let's debunk the "I don't have time" myth and explore three empowering perspectives.

---

October always feels like the beginning of the end of the year for me. I become more aware of how time has passed and how I want to use my time in the coming year.

This becomes the ideal for a sneaky lie to start invading your brain: "I don't have time"

This refrain often masks deeper truths.

Whenever you find yourself saying or thinking "I don't have time" double check yourself using these prompts:

• "It doesn't matter if I..." <>
• "I Don't Want To..." <>
• "It's not a priority for me to <> right now and I want to reconsider this at a later time"

Trying out these prompts give you more clarity about what's really going on with your time. It's not really about time. It's really about clarity. Clarity begets effective communication and consistent action. Share your decisions with those impacted and update your systems to reflect your chosen path.

---

How did these prompts reshape your perception of time and priorities?

Tell me all about it. You can DM me at Instagram.

https://www.instagram.com/theproductivityshift/

drmichellemazur.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmichellemazur/

What's your unconventional Roadmap for audience growth?

====================

Episode Title: What's Essential in Life and Business with Michelle Mazur

Welcome back, Shifters! 🌟

This week we're diving into messaging and marketing essentials with the amazing Michelle Mazer.

Michelle's journey is an inspiring testament to the power of clear messaging in business.

**Michelle's Mission**

 - Tired of web celebs over-promising and under-delivering, Michelle is here to spotlight real experts who deliver results.

 - Her goal? Flood the zone with incredible experts who transform businesses for the better!

**Elise's Aha Moment**

 - Michelle's consistent messaging caught Elise's attention and led to an impactful partnership.

 - A reminder that every piece of content should serve a purpose in your marketing strategy.

**Minimum Viable Marketing Message (MVMM)**

 - Phase 1: Growing your audience - Capturing attention from those who don't know you exist.

 - Phase 2: Engaging - Guiding them to diagnose their problems and dispel misconceptions.

 - Phase 3: Offering - Inviting them into the sales process with a clear framework and client stories.

**Michelle's Personal Journey**

 - A profound shift in Michelle's life led her to reevaluate priorities.

 - "Minimum Viable Michelle" - Clearing non-essential tasks to focus on core business elements.

 - A lesson in recognizing circumstantial overwhelm and prioritizing the essentials.

**Next Steps with Michelle**

 - Join the Expert Up Club's Open House for an insider's look at transforming your messaging and marketing. drmichellemazur.com/openhouse

Remember, it's not about doing it all; it's about doing what matters most. Keep making progress on what counts! 💪

And if it's all feeling like a bit too much for you right now, be sure to reach out. I'm most responsive on email: elise@eliseenriquez.com

**Introduction**
- Unusual Break: Addressing last week's episode hiatus

**Embracing the 30% Rule**
- Rethinking Peak Performance
- Balance for Productivity: Recognizing the need for self-care in productivity

 **Navigating Menopause: A Three-Year Journey**
- Recognizing Symptoms: From anxiety to night sweats
- Shifting Perspectives: Understanding menopause as a natural phase

**The Crucial Role of Self-Compassion**
- Avoiding Burnout: Balancing essential tasks with self-care
- 'Bonus Brain' System: A tool for maintaining equilibrium

**Applying Lessons to Life's Challenges**
- Drawing from Loss and Menopause: Universal lessons in resilience
- Navigating Tough Phases: Insights for facing life's hurdles

https://www.eliseenriquez.com/openhouse   ================================

**Episode 095: The Demise of the GYST Course: A Sneak Peek Behind the Decision**

Welcome back to the Productivity Shift Podcast! In this episode, your host, Elise Enriquez, takes you behind the scenes to reveal the reasons behind her decision to retire the beloved GYST Course. Join Elise for a candid discussion on why this transformation was necessary to better serve your productivity needs. Discover the new container that replaces the GYST Course and learn how it aligns with Elise's mission to help you make long-lasting progress on what truly matters to you.

In this episode, you'll find:

- The concept of "killing your darlings" and how it applies to productivity.
- The evolution of the GYST Course over seven years.
- Insights into why a new approach was needed for YOUR sustainable productivity growth.
- Details about the GYST community and how it supports your productivity journey.
- Information on the GYST community open house for those interested in joining.

Don't miss this intimate and informative episode where Elise shares her vision for a more effective productivity solution. It's all about making progress on what matters most while staying present to the people, experiences, and opportunities that fulfill you.

If you're ready to explore the future of productivity, tune in now!

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Ep 94 - Hard Truth: an app won't save you

**Introduction:**

Today we're tackling the myth of those magical productivity apps. You know that meme with Winnie the Pooh and the salad? Well, we've all been there, hoping for instant change. But, here's the scoop: apps aren't a quick fix. Let's dive in.

**The App Illusion:**

Imagine if a single app could transform your life? Sounds dreamy, but the reality is different. While apps can help, they won't work miracles. True productivity takes commitment and consistent effort.

**Peeling the Layers:**

Productivity issues often hide deeper problems like lack of clarity and mindset. Apps might flag these, but real change requires addressing the roots. They're tools, not therapists.

**Sustainability & Setbacks:**

Quick fixes are like sparks; they fade fast. Real change, however, is a bonfire of resilience. Apps won't guide you through setbacks, but we're here to help you bounce back.

**Personalization is Key:**

One-size-fits-all? Nah, we're not about that. You're unique, and your productivity should be too. Apps can adapt, but they can't read minds. Personalized strategies are where it's at.

**The GYST Community:**

Meet the GYST Community - where clarity, communication, and consistency meet. Apps play a role, but the magic comes from making progress on what truly matters. Join the journey.

**Virtual Open House:**

Exciting news! I'm throwing a virtual open house. Discover how the GYST Community can transform your productivity journey. Get the deets at https://www.eliseenriquez.com/openhouse

**Closing Thoughts:**

Before you go app-crazy, remember: apps are tools, not saviors. It's how you use them that counts.

And here are the links to the apps I mentioned at the end of the episode:

GQUEUES - my to-do list 

https://gqz.page.link/H83oswp1dR3EEijA8 (this is an affiliate link)  

Google Calendar...I don't think you need a link to this

Evernote - where I hold everything that isn't actionable

https://evernote.com/ 

My favorite notepads
The fancy one: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004TZ8BY4/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 

The cheap one: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07D8SL3LV/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

=======

Hey there Shifters! We're diving into the magic of taking action – perfect for all you incredible women entrepreneurs out there who are rocking both life and business. Let's blend productivity with a big dollop of living your best life! OMG, did I just go all Oprah on you? Sorry about that.

**Episode Highlights:**

**Hey, Let's Dive In:** Get ready to experience a whole new level of taking action – one that's tailored to your vibrant life as a kickass woman entrepreneur. We're here to show you how embracing action can create beautiful shifts.

**Unveiling Yoda's Wisdom:** Picture this: Yoda's famous quote, "Do or do not, there is no try." We're decoding the real essence behind these words and how they're all about diving in with full-hearted effort...for as long as it makes sense.

**Action with Flair:** Let's chat about that Yoda quote some more. It's all about believing in yourself and rocking it with unshakable commitment. Whether it's a baby step or a giant leap, it's your spirit and dedication that make the difference.

**Experimenting Joyfully:** We're busting myths about trying – it's not a bad word at all! We'll serve up real stories of finding your passions through exploration. Because trying new things? It's like trying on a new shoe style and discovering it's your absolute fave! (That shoe thing actually just happened to me this weekend.)

**Revolutionizing Coaching:** Brace yourselves for a game-changer – unlimited coaching sessions. We're sharing a client's story who embraced this idea. It's all about riding the wave of consistent effort and embracing progress like a boss.

**Ready for a Shift? Let's Chat:** Unlimited coaching piqued your curiosity? Then you're in for a treat! Reach out to me and let's chat. I've got your back as you make strides toward a more loveable life and business. Email me at elise@eliseenriquez.com to learn more about the unlimited coaching program.

**Parting Words of Wisdom:** Every little step you take is progress on your journey.

https://www.eliseenriquez.com/problem   =====================  

Want the workbook for the "What's Your Problem Workshop"?

https://www.eliseenriquez.com/problem

=====================

**Decoding Overwhelm: Navigating Circumstantial vs. Unintentional Strain**

Welcome to the *Productivity Shift Podcast*, a realm where practicality meets empowerment. Hosted by Elise Enriquez, this episode uncovers the intricacies of overwhelm by dissecting two prevalent "strains" – circumstantial and unintentional.

**Unmasking Overwhelm: The Fundamental Difference**

Let's dive into the heart of the matter – overwhelm comes in two distinct flavors:

*Circumstantial Overwhelm*: This type stems from external circumstances that demand our full attention, such as health crises, life events, and transitions.

*Unintentional Overwhelm*: Born from a lack of clarity and boundaries, it's the result of taking on more than we can handle, inadvertently overburdening ourselves.

**Unveiling Overwhelm in Action**

Within my *GYST Productivity Community*, two participants perfectly epitomized these forms of overwhelm:

The first, grappling with circumstantial overwhelm, was entangled in the throes of life circumstances that required immediate action.

The second, facing unintentional overwhelm, was ensnared by choices that blurred priorities and left them struggling to manage an ever-expanding to-do list.

**Finding Freedom from Overwhelm**

The road to overcoming overwhelm involves tailored strategies for both categories:

*Circumstantial Overwhelm*: Pause, identify the essentials that are non-negotiable, and relinquish non-essentials for now. Regain control by focusing on what truly matters, much like a community member navigating health challenges did.

*Unintentional Overwhelm*: Hit the pause button, realign your priorities, and exercise the power of saying no. Channel your energy toward tasks with meaningful impact, breaking free from the grip of unintentional overwhelm.

**Guided Solutions and Your Path Forward**

Amid the hustle and bustle of life, a practical solution beckons – the "What's Your Problem" workshop on August 23rd at 11:30 AM Pacific Time. Visit EliseEnriquez.com/problem for an immersive experience that offers tailored solutions to conquer overwhelm.

In this interplay of strategic insights and actionable steps, remember: you hold the power to redefine productivity and transform your life.

=============================================

I'll be start reviewing applications for the GYST Productivity Community soon. Want to apply?

http://www.eliseenriquez.com/gyst

+++++++++++++++++++++

In this episode of *The Productivity Shift* podcast, Elise Enriquez unveils the secrets to enhancing family productivity through family meetings. Discover how teamwork, clear communication, and alignment can lead to progress in what truly matters.

Join Elise and her partner, Kim, on their weekly family meetings as they discuss how this effective practice empowers them to manage interruptions, set expectations, budget wisely, and celebrate their successes as a team.

But that's not all!

Tune in to hear the insightful sharing from Andrea, a valued GYST community member, and Elise's best friend. She provides a unique perspective on family meetings, catering to families with children, inspired by the success of classroom meetings.

Learn the ideal frequency for family meetings and explore the benefits of fostering a problem-solving community within your family.

Curious about Elise and Kim's family meeting style? Delve into the details of their strategic approach, focusing on three game-changing tools: YNAB (You Need A Budget), GQueues (a top-notch to-do list app), and the calendar. These tools form the backbone of their family meeting agenda, promoting seamless collaboration, financial consciousness, and balanced time management.

Uncover the secrets to a successful family meeting, from choosing the perfect meeting location to assigning actions and avoiding common pitfalls.

Experience the magic of family meetings and witness how they bring harmony and clarity to your family life. Embrace this empowering episode and get ready to revolutionize your family's productivity.

Tune in now and discover the path to newfound productivity and happiness!

This is the kind of stuff we work on in the GYST Community. Enrollment will open soon, so head to https://www.eliseenriquez.com/gyst to apply for the next enrollment session.

Check out the apps we use*:

• GQueues: https://gqz.page.link/H83oswp1dR3EEijA8 
• YNAB: https://ynab.com/referral/?ref=T76kPbeOxVcBFSjN

*These are affiliate links. I do get a little bonus if you eventually sign up for the paid version of of these apps. It's enough for me to buy a Vegan Oat Bar at Cafe Ladro. ;-) But that's not why I'm recommending them, I'm recommending it because I believe in them and use them every single day!

Are there things that your parents or influential adult said to you over and over again that you just didn't get...until you finally got it?

My mom always talked about making choices that would lead to better choices and I never got it. I just rolled my eyes.
Then one day, it clicked.

We all have some sort of expertise which means we end up saying the same stuff all the time. And that's our job as experts…to repeat ourselves to the people who want to learn from us.

Well, this episode is the second part of a list of seven (7) things that my GYST Community members say that I say all the time. (To get the first three, check out episode 89.)

So, here are the last 4 things I apparently say all the time and my reasoning behind why I say them:

• Shitty first drafts...say something about shitty first drafts, they said.
• Make sure your calendar reflects your reality...drive times!
• What are we celebrating?
• Progress, not perfection.

Which one of these can you focus on this week? Head on over to TheProductivityShift on Instagram and comment on Monday's weekly shift post.

Resources:
Listen to EP 89: https://www.eliseenriquez.com/podcasts/the-productivity-shift/episodes/2148015319

Bird By Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life by Anne Lamott

https://www.amazon.com/Bird-Some-Instructions-Writing-Life/dp/0385480016

Enneagram types: https://www.enneagraminstitute.com/type-descriptions

Back in June, I released episode 83 of the podcast where I shared the top five things I say to my clients all the time. Then I decided to check in with my GYST Productivity Community members to see what they had to say about this since they're the ones that I hang out with the most.

Well, they kind of disagreed with my initial list. Of the seven things that they said, only one of them overlapped with the top five that I shared in episode 83. So this episode is me saying, "Okay, maybe I got that wrong".

Here are the 7 things that my clients said I say to them all the time:

• Give yourself what you need
• If I walked in what would I find you doing
• Share your screen
• Shitty first drafts
• Make sure your calendar reflects your reality...drive times!
• What are we celebrating
• Progress, not perfection

In this episode, I cover the first 3:

• Give yourself what you need
• If I walked in what would I find you doing
• Share your screen

(Look out for the next episode in which I will cover the last 4.)

Which ONE of those three could you focus on this week? Head on over to The ProductivityShift on Instagram and find ‘The Weekly Shift’ post to share which one you'll try this week.

Resources:
Listen to EP 83
https://www.eliseenriquez.com/podcasts/the-productivity-shift/episodes/2147959015

Bird By Bird by Anne Lamott
https://www.amazon.com/Bird-Some-Instructions-Writing-Life/dp/0385480016

**This podcast is lovingly created by yours truly, Elise Enriquez, and produced by Rachael Sanya.

I don't know about you, but I get inspired when I talk to other women business owners who are taking charge in the world. These women are intentional. They get clear about what they want, they communicate it to who matters most, and they set up systems to support consistent progress toward what they want.

In this episode, I spoke to a woman just like like this. Amy Traugh is a business coach, the founder and CEO of the Moms on a Mission community, and the host of The Motivated Mompreneur podcast.

She has made it her mission to change the narrative that you have to choose between your business and your role as a mom. She helps business owners gain the clarity, consistency, and confidence to create more profit with less hustle.

Amy has such great energy and cares so much about empowering women business owners with kids. There were so many things we touched on in such a short time. I had like 10 things to highlight but I boiled it down to 3:

• You can stop checking all of the societal boxes anytime. Create that whitespace so you can pause and make sure you are living the life you really want.

• You get to decide what success looks like for you.
• Surround yourself with other people on the journey.

If you are looking for a community of business owners who are also raising kids, be sure to go to themomsonamission.com to learn more about what Amy's doing. You'll also find Amy's Small Business Resource Guide there too.

**This podcast is lovingly created by yours truly, Elise Enriquez, and produced by Rachael Sanya.

I become unimpressed with the volume of books people read when they are about personal growth, business growth, et cetera. Basically, books that are categorized as self-help books.

I know people who take great pride in listening to 2 or 3 audiobooks a month or reading two business books a month. They consume the book and then throw it aside for the next one without taking any action based on what they just read. I'm not saying that every book has to inspire a complete change in your life or business, but why read the book if you're not going to do something with it?

In this episode, I'm challenging you to take a different approach to personal and business growth books with the help of a great article written by one of my favorite authors, James Clear - "7 Ways to Retain More of Every Book You Read"

I pulled out my top 3 of those 7:

• Quit more books,
• Choose books you can use instantly.
• Read a book twice.
  

So for your weekly shift, I'm challenging you to pick a personal or business growth book you've already read and still own and read it again.

Resources:

Source for Myers-Briggs Type Indicator and Uses of Information: "Introduction to Myers-Briggs Type" by Isabell Briggs Myers

James Clear's "7 Ways to Retain More of Every Book You Read". https://jamesclear.com/reading-comprehension-strategies

Atomic Habits by James Clear: https://a.co/d/3Mri3Hz

Happy Independence day...week!

For those of you outside the US, our independence day is on July 4th. On July 4th, 1776 the US declared our independence from British rule and broke away from an oppressive system and asserted the rights and freedoms of the American colonies.

This was obviously a pivotal moment in the history of the United States and I'm wondering if that could inspire you to create your own pivotal moment. What could you declare your independence from?

For those of you who are new here, when I talk about productivity, I'm talking about making progress on what matters most to you while still being present to the people, experiences, and opportunities that fulfill you. It's about setting up systems to support the life and business you want, and sometimes there are things that can get in the way of that. Things that maybe you want to declare your independence from.

I've got three ideas for you in this episode so you can take back your time and use it for what matters most to you. The three things that I see as big hurdles to productivity and you could declare your independence from are::

• Should
• Perfectionism
• Busyness

And I also just want to say, it's okay if you're not ready to declare your independence from all three of these things. I want you to just think of one.

Which one of these three things are you going to work on declaring your independence from over the next week?

Head on over to @theproductivityshift on Instagram and look for the Weekly Shift post and tell me which one you will focus on.

When you don't have a boss to report to you might not check in enough on your progress throughout the year.

Here are the questions we use to do a Mid-Year Reset in the GYST Productivity Community:

First, reflect.
:: What's gone well over the past few months?
:: What was your part in making those things happen?
:: What didn't go so well and why?

Next, get clarity.
:: What do you want to move forward over the next three to six months?
:: Who do you need to be to do these things?
:: Who needs to know about these things?

Finally, take action.
:: Identify next actions for your top 1-3 things you want to make progress on over the next few months.

I created a PDF you can use to capture all of your answers to these questions.

Just reach out via email or Instagram DM if you want a copy of the PDF.
Elise@EliseEnriquez.com
https://www.instagram.com/theproductivityshift/

If you need help getting clear on this, then join us for the What's Your Problem? workshop on June 28th. It’s a workshop where you'll learn, identify next steps, and have time to ask me anything you want that will help you move forward. Head on over to eliseenriquez.com/problem to sign up.

**This podcast is lovingly created by yours truly, Elise Enriquez, and produced by Rachael Sanya.

"Your mind is for having ideas, not holding them." David Allen

Do you ever get tired of saying the same shit over and over again to someone? I think that happens to all of us every now and again.

After 14-plus years of coaching, there are definitely things over the years that I find myself saying all the time. However, I don't get sick of saying them because after I say them, the coolest things happen.

In this episode, I share the top 5 from that list of things and give examples of what I mean when I say them, plus the kinds of that tend to happen when I ask them:

1. Get it out of your head. As David Allen says, "Your mind is for having ideas, not holding them."
2. Say more. Such a coachy thing to say, I know, but I love it because it is so open-ended. In that blank space and emptiness after I ask that question and wait, people start talking things through, and it allows me to see the patterns.
3. It's all an experiment. Things are way more fun and interesting, and you learn so much more when you can run conscious experiments, choosing to take the mindset of being a scientist.
4. Start with what you've got. When you are starting something new or want to figure out how technology can support you in a different way or in a better way, I really encourage people to ask what is essential to get started and how they can use what they currently have so that they can get clarity on what they actually need.
5. Give yourself what you need, however big or small what you need might turn out to be.

So, which one of these 5 things will you experiment with this week? Tell me all about it – go find the weekly shift post on Instagram or Facebook @theproductivityshift.

**This podcast is lovingly created by yours truly, Elise Enriquez, and produced by Rachael Sanya.

Did you know that there is a top-secret conspiracy that is fighting to take your time, energy, and attention from the stuff you care about? It works ruthlessly at all hours of the day and night to steal from you.

Do you know what it is?

Your email inbox. Dun, dun, dun!

OK, maybe I'm being a little dramatic. I mean, it's not really a conspiracy, but doesn't it feel that way sometimes? You think you know how your day is gonna go and then you look at your email and you're like...what the...???

Or maybe you are looking at your email first thing in the morning while you're still in bed and it starts stressing you out–and you start replying to stuff–before your feet even hit the floor. Don’t get me wrong. I don't see anything necessarily wrong with opening your email in bed. If it works for you, go for it.

Email is just another form of interruption, and interruptions are neutral. They are not good or bad. They are, by definition, things that pause the continuous progress of an activity or process.

Some interruptions are more intrusive (like a phone call from an elderly parent that doesn't normally call you in the middle of the day) and others can be kept at bay and engaged with when you choose to engage with them. Email, for most people, falls into this category.

In this episode, I’m talking about how to take back control of your time, attention, and energy. Before you let your email take over your day, start your day with intention.

After you’ve listened don’t forget to head on over to @TheProductivityShift on Instagram or Facebook to share your experiment or ideas with others.

**This podcast is lovingly created by yours truly, Elise Enriquez, and produced by Rachael Sanya.

All fairly positive to most people. However, sometimes people say words like elusive, unattainable, or impossible.

A few weeks ago, as I was kicking off GYST for my Spring cohort, one of my GYSTers surprised me. Her response to that question was:

• Rigidity
• Boring
• Predictable

I was so glad to hear her honest answer, because I often wonder how many people think this about productivity but are maybe just worried about offending me if they say it out loud to a productivity coach like me. This is exactly why I wanted to share my response with you in this episode.

Our unconscious views of productivity will determine whether or not we stick to the systems we put in place.
“If you see productivity as rigidity, boring and predictable, you could end up creating a lot of excitement in your life through the habit of procrastination, a lack of planning and a lack of systems.” ~ Elise

So what would you do differently this week if you believed that getting some productivity systems and habits in place would support you, not limit you?

If you are someone who feels like productivity is elusive, rigid, and boring AND at the same time you are ready to get off the rollercoaster of demands that everyone else is putting on you and get your shit together, then I encourage you to attend my first ever Ask Me Anything event. This is a live Q&A session on Zoom where you can share your issues around productivity with me and get some solutions you can use right away.
Our next event will be on June 14th. To register for the event go to: eliseenriquez.com/askelise   

**This podcast is lovingly created by yours truly, Elise Enriquez, and produced by Rachael Sanya.

My new favorite word is “lagom".

It's Swedish and it means “not too much, not too little, just the right amount.” I learned about ‘lagom’ on the new TV series "The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning", which is based on Margareta Magnusson's book of the same name.

So what is death cleaning and what the hell does it have to do with productivity?

Swedish Death Cleaning is a practice of decluttering and organizing your stuff so that you don't burden your loved ones after you die. It's a kind thing to do for others AND for yourself, and it doesn't necessarily have to be done right before you die or even later in life. There are those who would argue it's never too early to let go of what no longer serves us. <<Ahem. I'm one of those people>>

I've always noticed some overlap between professional organizing and the productivity work I do, so I thought we could explore the parallels between Swedish death cleaning and productivity in this episode.

1. Start as early as possible so that you have time to go through everything carefully and make thoughtful decisions. The same goes for your productivity. It's never too early to make spend your time on what matters most.

2. Take stock of your possessions. This is what the bonus brain is all about - it holds everything that needs to be remembered so you be intentional about how you spend your time.

3. Decide what to keep. This could look like getting clear on what matters most in my definition of productivity.

4. Decide what to discard. What are you going to let go of so that you can spend your time on this planet with your people the way you want to?

5. Consider what to leave behind. What do you want your time here on earth to mean?

6. Organize your possessions. The same can be said for your goals, projects, and actions.

So tell me, where do you have "too much" right now? And what is one small thing you could do this week to get closer to lagom in that area? Be sure to head on over to TheProductivityShift on Instagram or Facebook for the emoji challenge. Use emojis to tell me what area of your life has too much and use emojis to express how you'll feel when you get to lagom in that area. Or use words if you prefer.

Resources:

The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning: How to Free Yourself and Your Family from a Lifetime of Clutter, by Margareta Magnusson https://www.amazon.co.uk/Gentle-Art-Swedish-Death-Cleaning/dp/1786891085

“Psychology: Your Attention, Please” based on a study by Princeton University Neuroscience professor Sabine Kastner https://paw.princeton.edu/article/psychology-your-attention-please

**This podcast is lovingly created by yours truly, Elise Enriquez, and produced by Rachael Sanya.

My podcast usually attracts women in charge, the ones everyone tracks down to make shit happen. And you do make it happen; maybe even so amazingly well that you make it look effortless.

But on the inside, there can be frustration. Struggle. Overwhelm. A knowing that things could feel a little calmer than they feel now. A little, dare I say...easier.

Ultimately, when it comes down to it, it's all about time. How much time do you have and how do you use it? And let's face it – your time is largely spoken for. So it's not about creating more time. You only get 24 hours in a day...and hopefully, at least ⅓ of those are spent sleeping!

It's actually about reclaiming your time.

In this episode, I lay out 3 things you must do to take your time back.
1 - Find your compelling why.
2 - Develop a growth mindset.
3 - Put systems and habits in place that support you.

What is the next step you'll take out of those 3? Head on over to The Productivity Shift on Instagram or Facebook and share which one you're going to focus on in the Weekly Shift Post.

And if you picked "put systems and habits in place that support you", your next step is easy - go to daretoprioritize.com to sign up for my Dare to Prioritize challenge, a live 5-day challenge that I host to help people reclaim their time. We'll kick things off on May 22.

Resources:
"Mindset: The New Psychology of Success" by psychologist and Standford Psychology researcher, Dr. Carol Dweck - https://www.amazon.com/Mindset-Psychology-Carol-S-Dweck/dp/0345472322/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1683075056&sr=1-1

"Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance" by psychologist and University of Pennsylvania researcher, Dr. Angela Duckworth - https://angeladuckworth.com/grit-book/

**This podcast is lovingly created by yours truly, Elise Enriquez, and produced by Rachael Sanya.

Wanna know what the big shift was? We moved her from keeping everything in her head to getting it all in one place so she could decide how to use her time.

My challenge for you in this episode is to get it all out of your head.

I find that many of my clients who focus more on their five senses hold a lot of information in their heads. Despite building external systems they trust, when they get stressed, they tend to think they can trust their own brains even more.

It all falls apart, though, when volume increases too fast AND/OR they take on something new, and this habit of holding stuff in their heads is a sure sign to me that they are feeling overwhelmed.

You see, constantly cycling through your projects, worries, busyness, problems, etc over and over again is usually masking one of 2 things:
:: A lack of priorities
:: A bigger problem you are trying to avoid

The key to breaking out of this cycle is to get things out of your head.

So if this sounds like you, and you want that shift that Molly experienced once she moved everything out of her head, walk with me through this episode and I will show you how.

And if, after all that, you’re ready to set up a system you can trust, then Dare to Prioritize might just be the thing you need. It’s a LIVE 5-day challenge where I guide you through the daily process of brain dumping, prioritizing, and planning action so you can take back your time.

Head on over to daretoprioritize.com to sign up.

**This podcast is lovingly created by yours truly, Elise Enriquez, and produced by Rachael Sanya.

Head on over to daretoprioritize.com to sign up
============================

"All the systems, apps and tools in the world don't matter if you don't have what matters most to you in them." ~ Elise

I love a to-do list! So much so that my wife bought me a t-shirt that says "Lists are my love language." Yep! It’s true.

I also love systems. I mean, I have a whole coaching program around building systems to support your productivity called GYST, which stands for Get Your Shit Together.

I have been a list and systems girl for a long time–I am deeply committed to them–and yet there was a time when what was on my list had everything on it except what mattered most to me. I've worked hard over the years to change this for myself, and now I'm dedicated to helping other people make this change too.

Now if you’re new here, it might be worth mentioning that the purpose of to-do lists in my world is not just to tick things off and get more stuff done. No. In my world, when we mention productivity, we are talking about making progress on what matters most to YOU. We are talking about not just getting stuff done that has to get done because you promised someone else, we are talking about looking inside yourself to say: who do I want to be in this world? What do I want to do? How do I want to spend my time on this planet?

In this episode, we use one of my clients’ experience as a case study to determine whether your to-do list is helping you or if it's holding you back, because let’s face it; all the systems, apps, and tools in the world don't matter if you don't have what matters most IN them.

Trust me, I have been a highly organized, get-it-done kind of person who was extremely lonely and unhappy in my old ways of productivity. If you can relate to my GYSTer or how I used to operate, it might be time for a productivity shift.

So, here's Your Weekly Shift...the little experiment you are going to run this week to shift your productivity:

• Look at your to-do list, your calendar, your notepad, wherever you keep track of what needs to get done and ask yourself:
• Is my most important dream or goal in there?
• If not, pick your favorite song, and brain-dump all the things you are thinking about when it comes to that dream or goal until the song ends.
• And then get all of that into whatever you are using to keep track of what you want to get done.

To show that you are running this experiment, head on over to @theproductivityshift on Instagram or Facebook and put one of your favorite songs in the comments of the weekly shift post. Give me some music to inspire me and others!

**This podcast is lovingly created by yours truly, Elise Enriquez, and produced by Rachael Sanya.

Did you ever watch 30 Rock? It ran from 2006 to 2013 on NBC and starred Tina Fey as Liz Lemon –one of my all-time favorite sitcom leads. Liz Lemon's love of her work is what I admire most about her. It's evident that she's passionate about what she does...to the point where she is committed to her career despite all the bullshit that she has to put up with.

I think it’s fair to say that one way you could describe Liz Lemon, especially at the beginning of the series, is “overcommitted.” She takes on too much and just takes things as they come. When everyone needs something, she's the one they turn to and she's so creative she can't help but try to do it all.

Does this sound like you at all?

Well, in this episode, I talk about what being overcommitted might look like, the risks it involves and what you can do to change things, all through the lens of Liz Lemon and her commitment or over-commitment issues.

It may not always feel like it, but, as Liz discovers, you actually have a choice and you get to decide what your life looks like. You may not be able to choose all of the stuff that comes your way, but you do get to choose how you react to all of it.

But where do you start?

• You start by getting clear on the reality of where you are right now.
• You take it one day at a time.
• You start consciously responding to things instead of reacting to everything coming your way.
• You look at the time you have and prioritize how you use it.

Your Weekly Shift is to get real about what's going on in your world by signing up for my free and fun Dare to Prioritize challenge. Starting May 22nd I'll be going live with my Dare to Prioritize peeps every day for a week to support them in taking the first steps to get off the overcommitted bus and shift to taking back control of their time.

Head on over to daretoprioritize.com to join us!

References:
Leiter, M. P., Frank, E., & Matheson, T. J. (2009). Demands, values, and burnout: Relevance for physicians. Canadian Family Physician, 55(12), 1224-1225.

Schaufeli, W. B., Bakker, A. B., & Salanova, M. (2006). The measurement of work engagement with a short questionnaire: A cross-national study. Educational and Psychological Measurement, 66(4), 701-716.

**This podcast is lovingly created by yours truly, Elise Enriquez, and produced by Rachael Sanya.

Did you ever play the game “Hot and Cold” growing up? You know, your friends would hide something and they would tell you if you were getting hotter or colder as you searched for it. Well, it turns out this game can be applied to productivity as well.

“By using the principles of hot and cold, you can hone your focus, increase your efficiency, and achieve your goals faster than ever before.” ~ Elise.

We’re hopping in the time machine in this episode for a little bit. I want you to go back with me and see little Elise in a game of hot and cold. Remember the way it was played - or at least in my family - whoever was "it" would leave the room while the other players hid a prized object somewhere in the room. When "it" returned, they would have to search for the object while the other players gave them clues by saying "hot" when they were close and "cold" when they were far away.

I was always a bit nervous playing this game because I hated getting things wrong, especially in front of an audience. I was the kid who dreaded P.E. class because we had to do things in front of each other, and I was always afraid of making a mistake. So you can imagine how I felt playing hot and cold. Every step I took was a potential mistake, and I didn't want to let my team down.

But deep down, I knew I wanted to find the object and win the game. So I had to take a risk and start moving. Sometimes I guessed the right direction, and other times I was wrong, but I learned from my mistakes and kept going. And when I finally found the object, it was such a rewarding feeling.

Now, as a coach, I see a lot of people who get stuck in analysis paralysis. They spend so much time thinking about their goals and all the different ways they could achieve them, but they don't take action. Just like in the game of hot and cold, you have to take a risk and start moving towards your goal. You might make mistakes along the way, but you'll learn from them and keep improving until you finally reach your prize.

Let’s start you along with a little experiment in The Weekly Shift with 2 steps:

Step 1 - Think of one thing you've been putting on the back burner that you care about, are passionate or excited about that you know would be good for you and that you want to pursue. Do you have it? Say it out loud right now...or at least say it in your head right now

Step 2 - Find a way to play hot and cold with this thing, goal, project or idea by taking just one tiny step every single day this week. See how it feels to take action on it.

Take action. Get feedback. Take your next action. Get feedback. Take your next action. So on and so forth.

If you are all in on trying the shift this week, head over to @theproductivityshift on Facebook or Instagram and comment in the weekly shift post with some sort of fun emoji.

**This podcast is lovingly created by yours truly, Elise Enriquez, and produced by Rachael Sanya.

“Show me your calendar and I'll tell you what you value.” ~ Anon

One thing about that quote is that it’s one of those bits of wisdom that can't be sourced. I've done enough research and from what I’ve seen, it's attributed in some form or another to a lot of different people.

The other thing is that it falls under the “annoying but true” category of personal growth wisdom. So buckle up for an annoying but true episode about what your calendar is trying to tell you.

Way back when I worked at Microsoft, my calendar was full of meetings, and I’ve got to admit – I kind of liked it, even though everybody else complained about all the meetings they had. I think it made me feel kind of important and proud that people wanted me in their meetings, and maybe some of that was FOMO.

But really, looking back at my patterns of behavior, a lot of it was me not deciding for myself what I wanted to create in my career or life. I just gave my time away to anyone who wanted or asked instead of thinking about how I actually wanted to use it, as if it was something as tangible as money.

It took me years, even after I left corporate America and had my own clients, but I finally realized how precious my time really is. I run a little observation experiment with my calendar (which I’m talking about in this episode) and the insights were nearly instantaneous. It completely transformed how I served my clients.

What do you think you'd observe by looking at how you really use your time?

Find out in Your Weekly Shift: Observe your time. At the end of each day this week, look at your calendar and reflect back on how you used your time...bonus points for printing it out and filling in stuff you worked on or did during the blank spaces in your calendar

Ask yourself: What was one thing missing from today that I wish I would have spent time on? Write that down!

**The Productivity Shift is lovingly created by me, Elise Enriquez, and produced by Rachael Sanya

 Head on over to https://eliseenriquez.com/whatmattersmost/ to apply for a spot.
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If you've been listening to this podcast for a while now, you know that I am big on words. I like to know what words mean and I like to use the "right" words to express what I am trying to say whenever possible.

It is through that lens that I looked at my business and realized that I wanted to make a change – a shift, actually. So, as of now, this podcast is now known as THE PRODUCTIVITY SHIFT...and in this episode, I tell you all about why that shift is happening.

I've come to realize that using the word “breakthrough” for my podcast may have been misleading.

Making a breakthrough and making a shift are two related but distinct ideas.

While breakthroughs and shifts can both lead to positive change and progress, they differ in their nature and the way they come about:

• Breakthroughs often involve a sudden and unexpected change, while shifts are more deliberate and intentional.
• Breakthroughs can be transformative and have a big impact, but they can also be unpredictable and difficult to replicate. 
• Shifts, on the other hand, are more reliable and can be repeated and built upon over time.

It's important to point out that both making a breakthrough and making a shift requires a willingness to experiment, learn, and adapt. That happens to be what I'm good at; helping you learn, experiment and adapt to help you make progress on what matters most while still being present enough to enjoy your life, your work, and your people.

And with The Productivity Shift, I can help you run little experiments that create big impacts. One episode at a time.

Let’s start right now with The Weekly Shift: What is the biggest productivity problem you are facing right now? Pick ONE small action you could take every day to improve.

And if you feel stuck, head on over to TheProductivityShift on Facebook and I'll get you what you need to run your productivity experiment.

Link to the study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology:  https://psycnet.apa.org/fulltext/2022-08530-002.html 
=========================

“Studies show that we would benefit more from spending a little more time planning our work and actually doing the intentional work.” ~ Elise

Does it feel like you are constantly being interrupted?

You are not crazy...it's true. You are constantly being interrupted AND these interruptions DON'T have to ruin your productivity.

I had a hunch that women get interrupted more than men, and I already knew that studies show that women get interrupted in meetings and in conversations more than men do. According to a study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology, there is a gender divide when it comes to work interruptions.

These aren't the kind of interruptions I'm talking about in this episode, though. In my GYST productivity program, I talk about 3 kinds of work;
1 - Planning your work: which means assessing everything that's on your plate, getting things out of your head, looking at the projects in front of you, looking at the time you have, and then deciding what you want to make progress on: 
2 - Doing Intentional work: executing the plan that you made.
3 - Doing unintentional work: doing work as it shows up. In other words, engaging with interruptions.

Now, doing unintentional work or engaging with interruptions isn't inherently bad, so in this episode, I share some ideas about how to better manage all these interruptions that are coming your way.

You’ll learn;

• How to reduce interruptions
• How to deal with the interruptions that do arise
• What to do when there are interruptions you want to engage with.

So tell me your response to this question of the week…What is ONE strategy you could put in place this week to better manage interruptions? 

Hop on over to Instagram and tell me all about it. You can DM me or find the question of the week post

Have you ever looked at all you needed to get done and thought "Man, I need a wife!"

It's a common sentiment even in 2023, despite the progress we've made in balancing household responsibilities.

I admit I've made that joke before, staring at a mountain of laundry, a pile of dishes in the sink, and undone errands. My mother and friends have made the same quip.

While many marriages are more balanced now than in the past, there are still plenty of women who wish they had someone to share the load. This sentiment was expressed in Judy Brady's satirical essay "I Want a Wife" back in 1971.

In this episode, I read the essay in its entirety in a bid to capture how accurately the author portrayed the burden of mental load that women have been carrying, both in the past and present.

This emphasizes the significance of changing our view of productivity from “Getting it All Done” to making progress on what matters most to us while still being present with the people, experiences, and opportunities that are all around us.

One of the best ways to do this is to start letting some things go and expect LESS of ourselves.

And on that note, what is ONE thing you could let go of this week?

Find me on Instagram and share your answer with me. I want to celebrate you!

Head on over to daretoprioritize.com to sign up.
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Have you ever noticed how good it feels the last workday before vacation? Do you know what that's about?

It's about clarity. It's about getting everything known.

To really go on a vacation and leave work and home behind, you’ve got to get everything known, updated and handed off or under control so that you can actually leave and relax.

Well, what if you could have that feeling every week?

In this episode, I wrap up a three-part series I've been doing on the GPS model. Don’t worry if you missed the first two episodes of the series. You can go back and listen to episode 67: Gather and episode 68 - Process.

So in part 3(that’s this episode), I talk about the S in my GPS model...which stands for two things.

• System, and
• Systems Check

I think of systems as a collection of tools and/or processes you use to stay productive and present and I’m one of those people who literally get shivers up their spine when we talk about systems and processes.

Here are my reasons for getting that excited about systems:

• I believe simple systems are the best systems
• I believe systems should support us, not limit us

So let’s help you find out how building a simple system that supports you and keeping it current with a systems check can help you experience that holiday feeling every week.

Now it’s your turn to answer the Question of the Week…What simple system can you put in place to bring you more peace of mind this week?

Head on over to @productivitybreakthrough on IG and share your answer under the Question of the Week post.

Head on over to daretoprioritize.com to join the challenge today.
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“Accept the reality of the seasons that you're in and give yourself grace for that.” ~ Jenna Hodge

In this episode, we talk about making you the thing that matters most...even when you have children to take care of.

Although I'm biased, I'd like to think I'm an amazing auntie to two incredible kids; however, I'm not a parent. So I brought in reinforcements in the form of a special guest - Jenna Hodge of Purpose Intended.

A mom of three little boys, Jenna’s experience of going through motherhood much earlier than her peers left her feeling completely isolated, so she decided to start writing about her experience on her blog. And after an intense postpartum period following the birth of her first child, she picked up a lot of knowledge about infant sleep, all of which she compiled into baby & toddler guides.

Jenna now coaches moms 1:1 to help them find time in their day to get the things they need to get done and the things they want to get done so that they can take care of themselves best and then be the best mom to their kids. She helps them advocate for themselves, live a healthy lifestyle and enjoy motherhood.

Here are just a few of my takeaways from our chat:
:: Accept the reality you are in
:: Acceptance is not complacency
:: Prioritizing your wellness and fulfillment models important behavior for your kiddos

Let me know your takeaways and your answer to the Question of the Week.

What is one thing you can do this week to take better care of yourself?

Come on over to  Instagram or Facebook and let me know.

To learn more and sign up, go to 

http://www.eliseenriquez.com/gyst

 
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Do you have a pile of stuff on or near your desk that you *think* might be important or *might* need your attention? You just grab stuff out of the pile when you need it...but the rest of the pile is always there. Staring at you. Daring you to not worry about what's in there?

Whether that pile is a real, physical pile, a pile of emails in your inbox, or a pile of thoughts in your head, we are going to talk about how to get rid of that pile in this episode.

In EP 67, I shared the GPS model (Gather, Process, Systems Check) that I teach in my GYST program and dove into how to make your Gathering more intentional.

This next step of knowing how to get rid of the pile of stuff you’ve *intentionally* gathered is what I refer to as processing. 

My GYST definition of Processing is giving all of your attention to one gathered item at a time so you can:

• Determine what it means to you
• Decide if you need to do anything about it
• Place it in your system

This is the key to making your gathering more intentional...emptying your gathering spots on a regular basis. Your gathering spots are a way to keep things at bay while you focus on what matters most and then take time to frequently look at and process what you were keeping at bay.

To me, processing is about deciding and doing.

• You decide what the gathered item means to you
• Then you DO something with that gathering item

So tell me, what part of your life or work could use some processing this week?

Come over to Instagram or Facebook and let me know your answer under the Question of the Week post.

We'll kick things off on March 6th, so be sure to head to eliseenriquez.com/gyst for details.
====================

Do you ever do something so often or talk about something so often that you don't even think about it? Does that make sense?

By the time this podcast first airs, I will have had my coaching practice for 14 years. I spent my first few years helping other people apply models for personal and professional growth. As I gained experience, my own models began to emerge. I talk about these models all the time, but not always in an obvious way. I can kind of take them for granted or forget that other people don't know about them yet.

So, I'm going to get obvious with you over the next few episodes and share one of my most fundamental models with you —The GPS Model.

GPS in my world stands for:
➥ Gather
➥ Process
➥ Systems Check

In this episode, I start with “Gather”.

“I think of gathering as placing undecided, unconsidered and/or non-urgent things in a safe place until you can do something about them.” ~ Elise

Your main takeaway from this episode – working on making your gathering more intentional.

1. Minimize the number of gathering spaces you have.
2. Keep those gathering spaces close.
3. Empty them frequently and consistently. (We'll talk more about this in the next episode.)

So you know what's coming next right? The question of the week.

What is ONE way you will make your gathering spaces more intentional this week?

Come over to Instagram or Facebook and let me know.

Go over here to sign up: daretoprioritize.com
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Do you remember what it felt like as a kid when you experienced those moments of just not fitting in?

There have been times when I've felt this way. A huge part of it is because I'm an enneagram type 9. I like things to stay calm, be a mediator and not add to the fuss, so I can sometimes hang around the edges of groups. And in doing that, it can feel like I don't fit in anywhere.

It doesn't matter what your personality type is, we all feel like outcasts from time to time.

When I think about the world of "productivity" and the loudest voices there, I see a lot of us left out. And as much as I respect the work of the forefathers of productivity, the problem is that this space has been dominated by white-collar white men; men who had “secretaries”, college degrees, and most importantly, wives at home who would handle the household while they went out and made the money.

Thankfully, there are a lot more voices in the world of productivity now. More women. More people of color. More small business owners.

This space –this podcast– my world is for;

• The small business owner who is wearing all the hats in the business and at home
• The working parent who is also carrying the mental load for the family
• The dedicated parent AND child, caring for their kids (and or pets) AND an ageing parent
• The caring leader who wants to bring relief to the people in their care
• Those who are all of the above!

Listen, the old ways of productivity are not for you, and that’s ok. You are not going to fit into a one-size-fits-all kind of productivity. That pre-printed planner won't work for you. That book with the white guy in the suit and tie on the cover saying "Do what I did" is going to frustrate you.

It's time to make a shift. It's time to do productivity in a different way.

The best place to start is by being really clear about what you want and where you want to go with your life so that you can make the day-to-day easier.

Listen in and find out how else you can start to move towards a healthier shift.

Question of the week: Who do you want to be in this world and what is one thing you can DO this week to bring you closer to being that person?

Join me on Instagram @productivitybreakthrough and let me know your thoughts.

That’s what moves us forward in life and business, and it’s also what I’m all about.

In this episode, I'm digging into the “getting things prioritized” piece, and what it means for your productivity.

People often come to me when they are feeling overwhelmed by all the little things in life that pile up, or when they feel like they're busy all day but aren't really getting anything done, and when they're losing sleep over things they are worried about that aren't getting done.

Or worse, they're not sure if stuff is or isn't getting done because there might be things that are slipping through the cracks. They also tend to come to me when they are so good at coordinating and organizing everyone else's shit but don't have their own shit together.

They aren't sure what to do, but they just know, "Not this. Something has to change."

So when people come to me feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and/or resentful, the first thing we do is get everything out in the open. We step back, take a breath and talk about it. This is important because if you want to be more productive, you need to be able to prioritize — and you cannot prioritize what is not known.

What is your top priority for this week?

Go on over to @productivitybreakthrough on Instagram and respond to the “Question of the Week” post with your answer.

In this challenge, I'm daring you to dedicate some time for yourself each day to decide on and schedule the action needed around what matters most to you each day.

Head on over to daretoprioritize.com to sign up.
====================================

This episode is about procrastination, and guess what I did when it came to working on getting it out to you? I procrastinated! Oh, the irony!

A few weeks ago, I asked people on social media what comes to mind when they hear the word ‘procrastinate’. There were some jokes in there, of course—like Justin who said, “I'll come back to this question later” and Cathy who asked if there's such a thing as an ‘amateur-crastinator’ since there's a ‘pro-crastinator’? I thought that one was pretty clever, actually.

Sarah said, “Fear is what comes to mind.” She told me that when she is in fear of failure and perfection, not meeting standards, she procrastinates. She also said she has a quote on her bulletin board that says, “Tackle procrastination. It is negativity in disguise.”

Love it!

How, then, do we overcome our habit of putting things off? I looked up the definition of procrastination in different dictionary versions and found two that were most helpful for us to get to the root of why we procrastinate.

–
Procrastination (Oxford Dictionary):
noun. /prəˌkræstɪˈneɪʃn/ /prəˌkræstɪˈneɪʃn/ ​the act of delaying something that you should do, usually because you do not want to do it.
– 
Procrastination (Cambridge Dictionary):
noun. /prəˌkræs.tɪˈneɪ.ʃən/ /proʊˌkræs.tɪˈneɪ.ʃən/ the act of delaying something that must be done, often because it is unpleasant or boring.
– 

If you have a project you have been procrastinating on, first ask yourself if you really want to do the thing you've been avoiding. If not, cross it off your list. If so—and especially if you're on the fence—take a small step forward by identifying your next step. And don't forget to talk to a friend if you're stuck!

Question of the Week…What is ONE thing you have been procrastinating? What is the next step you COULD take to make progress on it?

Let me know over on Instagram or Facebook @productivitybreakthrough. And don't forget to sign up for the Dare to Prioritize challenge. See you there!

Clear your mental clutter with me here:http://www.eliseenriquez.com/gyst
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“It's so essential to simplify your home and your stuff. And I think that's the simplest place to start because everything else in your life is so complicated.”
~ Krista Lockwood

As a productivity coach, I help people with the clutter in their brains and a little bit of physical clutter in terms of what needs to get done in their lives and in their work.

Sometimes, though, the clutter in your physical space goes beyond just “a little bit”. And I don’t know about you, but when things get too cluttered for me, I start to feel scattered.

With the holidays having just happened when this episode comes out, I imagine you might have a little more stuff laying around. That is exactly why I invited this episode’s guest to the podcast.

Krista Lockwood is the founder of Motherhood Simplified. A mother who teaches other moms how to declutter without becoming full-blown minimalists, Krista has been able to create a simple and sustainable business while raising five kids - two of whom were born while she was starting it.

Imagine moving across the country with your family and only packing suitcases…just starting over from scratch? Krista did that!

She spent a month decluttering all of their stuff in Alaska and a decade later, she's still experiencing more time and more energy because of it. Now is that a testimonial for decluttering or what?

To hear even more compelling reasons why decluttering is so essential to creating ease in your life, tune in to the episode. Trust me, you will be energized and inspired to dig through that clutter by the end of it. (If you’re expecting the usual shaming tactics for having lots of stuff, you won’t be finding that in this episode. Krista is so gracious and supportive in her approach.)

Now, I need you to thoughtfully consider this Question of the week: Is your physical space supporting you or stressing you out?

Let me know over on Instagram or Facebook.

“Studies show that it can take 15 minutes of uninterrupted work on a certain task to reach a flow state.” ~ Elise.

If you’ve been following the podcast for a while, you will have heard of my GYST productivity coaching program, where I help people build what I call a bonus brain; essentially a dashboard for their life so they can make more intentional choices about how they're spending their time and energy, and they can quit trying to hold stuff in their head which just leads to so much overwhelm.

Anyway, one of the things I teach about is the two minutes or less rule. The intention of the rule is that if, as you are processing a bunch of stuff, eg. cleaning out your email inbox, something is going to take two minutes or less, you would do it there and then because it usually takes longer to put something into a system than it does to just do the damn thing.

This simple rule can get tricky when people think that it is about doing anything that needs to be done that is two minutes or less...regardless of when it comes in.

This is how you can nickel-and-dime your time away two minutes at a time because it's not just the two minutes for the task that you're taking. It's the time that it takes you to read the email, then go do the task that's only two minutes, and then get back into what it was you were working on before — context-switching, essentially.

Studies show that it can take 15 minutes of uninterrupted work on a certain task to reach a flow state, so in reality, that context-switching is going to cost you way more than the two minutes it takes to do that “quick task”.

In this episode, I give you three (3) simple things to do to make sure you are not nickel-and-diming your time away with two minutes or less tasks all the time;

• Accept that you are doing it. Just notice when you're doing it - without judgment.
• Stop doing the 2 minutes or less task. Just stop.
• Ask yourself, "is this the most important thing I could be doing right now?"

I want to know your takeaway from this episode by answering the question of the week…

What are you going to do to minimize your context-switching starting this week?

Let me know over on Instagram or Facebook at @productivitybreakthrough