Podcast Recap: Work Smarter, Not Harder
If you’d like to check it out, you can find this episode on Spotify. It’s also on Apple Podcasts and on our podcast landing page
In this kickoff to Season 3, Mary and DJ ring in the New Year with a conversation all about working smarter, not harder. They share a range of practical tips and candid stories aimed at helping you streamline your to-do list, stay organized, and make more meaningful use of your time—both at work and in life.
Key Takeaways:
- Prioritization & Saying “No”: Recognize that time is finite. Learn how to say “no” so you can say a deeper “yes” to what truly matters.
- Personal Systems: Mary uses Trello boards to track tasks in weekly “done” columns, while DJ prefers a compact notebook and pencil. The key? Find (and stick to) whichever system works best for you.
- Time-Boxing & Timers: Whether it’s simple hourglass timers or digital time blocks, setting limits helps you stay focused and avoid mental drift.
- Automation: From code scripts to email templates, automating repetitive tasks frees you up for higher-value work and fosters a “work smarter” mindset.
- Morning Mindset & Reflection: Start your day with a clear head. Regularly pause, reflect, and adjust—so you’re not just busy, but effective.
Throughout the discussion, Mary and DJ also recommend various books and resources, touching on motivation, radical candor, and the power of aligning daily tasks with personal values. If you’re looking to raise your productivity game without taking a “beating,” this episode offers the real-world strategies and insights you need for a more organized, energized, and fulfilling 2025.
Links we mentioned during the podcast
Motivating People Doesn’t Work
How to know if you talk too much
Hell Yeah or No - Derek Sivers
If you’d like to check it out, you can find this episode on Spotify. It’s also on Apple Podcasts and on our podcast landing page