Remember why you do what you do. It sounds simple, I know. But if you run your own business you know that it’s easier said than done. It’s a simple principle, really. Remembering why you do what you do will increase motivation & inspiration in turn making you more productive.

I started a new notebook in Evernote today called “DirtyWork – Why.” I was reminded by an email today that a to-do list is not just a collection of tasks & that opened my eyes to just how quickly I forget my why.

I challenge you to find one task on your to-do list that isn’t tied to at least one person. In a job where I judge success & productivity by how many things I check off the list on any given day, I forget that how I go about finishing those tasks is ultimately what makes all the difference. And that motivates my productivity more than anything.

That Evernote notebook is going to be the trick to remembering my why; remembering that the tasks are tied to people. It’s a collection of quotes, encouraging emails, photos of thank you notes – anything that reminds me why I do what I do.

How often do you take the time to remind yourself why you do what you do? I would love to hear if it makes you more productive!