We are always looking for ways to become more efficient!

Finding clever ways to finish tasks efficiently and quickly frees up time for meaningful things, we’re always searching for tips and tricks to make our lives easier.

Productivity is all about avoiding procrastination and having well established habits and routines.

Of course, this all well and good, but let’s take it one step further…

What about when we’re out and about in the world, how can we maximize our productivity?

Well…we can make the most of our time by adopting a “Contrarian” approach!

Adopt a Contrarian approach!

A Contrarian is defined as a person who deliberately behaves in a way that’s different from others around them.

This means doing things at a time when the rest of the world is not doing the same thing and engaging in tasks during offbeat hours, or outside regular work hours.

In the book “Time Tactics of Very Successful People“, B. Eugene Griessman describes helpful ways to manage time by planning ahead and streamlining processes.

A contrarian does things against the grain, during non-peak hours whenever possible, to save time and avoid crowds.

Let me share some examples of how you can adopt a contrarian approach when you’re out and about!

🚵 Outdoor Adventures: Plan hiking or biking on trails in the early mornings or weekdays to avoid peak times.
🏨 Auto-Checkout in Hotels: When staying at hotels, utilize auto-checkout to avoid standing in lines during peak checkout times.
🎁 Holiday Shopping: Avoid last minute shopping, and make more thoughtful gift choices, by purchasing holiday gifts in advance to avoid the holiday rush.
🍴 Early Dining: Opt for making dinner reservations just before or after the crowds arrive during typical dinner rush.
🚘 Driving Commutes: Avoid rush hour and drive to work during non-peak hours and spend less time in traffic. For added enjoyment, turn your car into a classroom, by listening to educational audiobooks.
✈️ Traveling: Traveling during off-peak seasons can save you money and experience fewer tourists.
🏃🏻‍♀️ Exercise: Spend less time waiting to use equipment, and have a more efficient workout by going to the gym during times when they’re less crowded.
🛍️ Grocery / Retail Shopping: Avoid waiting in lines, by grocery or retail shopping early in the morning, weekday afternoons, or right before the store closes.
🎡 Tourist Attractions: Visit tourist attractions, during weekdays or early mornings, for a a more enjoyable experience with fewer visitors.
👩🏻‍⚕️ Doctor’s Appointments: To avoid long wait times, schedule medical appointments during less popular hours, so you can get in and out more quickly.
🏃 Errands: To minimize waiting, plan banking, post office visits, and shopping for necessities during off-peak times.
🍿 Movies: For lower ticket prices, attend movies during matinee showings.

You can even utilize online services for shopping, bill payments, and reservations to avoid physical crowds altogether!

Be Intentional!

Maximizing productivity is key, even if we differ from the mainstream.

To live like a contrarian, the key is to identify off-peak hours when the majority of people are not engaged in the same activity.

This saves time and reduces stress.

Adopting this mindset supercharges productivity.

Being a contrarian isn’t just about timing; it’s about practicing self-care by setting boundaries and making intentional choices.

This practice safeguards our well-being amidst various demands, fostering a healthier balance in our lives.

Embracing this approach allows us to enhance our effectiveness, and navigate life’s complexities with intention!

Topic: How to Think Like a Contrarian!

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