How I Stay Productive as a Solo Founder with These 3 Simple Habits
As a solo founder, productivity can make or break your day. With no team to delegate tasks to, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Over time, I’ve developed a few simple but powerful habits that help me stay focused and productive.
Here are the three techniques I rely on:
1. Start with a 10-Minute Leslie Walking Exercise
I kickstart my day with a short, simple walking routine by Leslie Sansone. It’s only 10–15 minutes, but it completely shifts my energy. Moving my body first thing helps me shake off the grogginess and gives me a sense of accomplishment before I dive into work. This routine is like a signal to my brain: the day has begun, and I’m ready to take on whatever comes my way.
Why it works: It’s easy, requires no equipment, and starts your day with a small win. You’ll feel energized, and the sense of momentum carries into your workday.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZllXIKITzfg
2. Tackle the Hardest Task First
We all have that one task we dread — whether it’s a complicated project, a tough decision, or something we’ve been putting off. For me, starting the day by knocking out the hardest task makes everything else feel easier. If I don’t tackle it right away, it sits in the back of my mind, distracting me while I work on other things. By facing it head-on, I free up mental space and can focus more effectively on the rest of my day.
Why it works: You avoid procrastination and the mental drain of worrying about the tough task all day. Once it’s done, you’ll feel a sense of relief and accomplishment.
3. Keep a Productivity Journal
At the end of each day, I use a simple journal template to reflect: I jot down what tasks I completed today, what’s on the to-do list for tomorrow, key lessons I learned, and any random thoughts or ideas. This journal isn’t a planner or to-do list — it’s a tool to help me think and analyze better without overcomplicating things. It gives me space to evaluate my progress and gain clarity.
Why it works: It creates a daily accountability system. Reflecting on your wins, challenges, and future tasks keeps you grounded and intentional in your work.
Final Thoughts
These three techniques — starting my day with a quick workout, tackling the hardest task first, and reflecting through a productivity journal — have transformed how I approach my solo workdays. They keep me focused, energized, and in control of my time.
