How I Get More Done Without Working Longer Hours
If you’ve ever wondered how some people seem to fit so much into their days, you’re not alone. I often get asked, “How do you manage to do so many things?” The truth is, I’m not superhuman. I’m just a regular person who’s found a way to make the most of every day, and I want to share that with you.
Let me give you a quick overview of what my life looks like. I’m a part-time data science master’s student. I’m also a lead software engineer at a major burrito fast-food company. On top of that, I create a lot of content—YouTube videos (almost 3,000 across several channels), programming tutorials, and long-form courses on Udemy, some over 20 hours each. I write articles for my blog, I’ve published several books, and I still make time for my relationship, family, and friends. I travel, I read a lot, I walk instead of taking public transport when I can, and I even cook my own meals (pesto pasta is a favorite).
So, what’s my secret? It’s not magic. It’s a simple technique that changed everything for me: visualizing my day, every single morning.
The Power of Morning Visualization
Each morning, as soon as I wake up, I take a few minutes to picture exactly how my day will unfold. I don’t leave anything to chance. I know what I’m going to do, when I’m going to do it, and why it matters. This isn’t just a vague to-do list. It’s a clear mental movie of my day, from start to finish.
Why do I do this? Because time is life. When I waste time, I’m wasting my life. That’s why I prioritize my most important tasks first thing in the morning, when my mind is fresh and free from distractions or negative thoughts. I wake up around 6 a.m. (it used to be 5:15, but I’ve eased up a bit), and I give myself two hours of pure focus. Sometimes I go to a café, sometimes I work at home, but those two hours are sacred.
I’m not immune to stress or mental clutter. Like anyone, I can get thrown off by a rude email, a crowded tram, or an unexpected problem at work. That’s why I protect my mornings. By the evening, I’m tired and there are always surprises. But in the morning, I’m in control.
Consistency Over Multitasking
Another key is consistency. I do things regularly, every day, in a steady rhythm. I don’t wake up and wonder, “What should I do today?” I already know. I don’t try to do everything at once. I focus on one thing at a time, and I do it well.
This approach has allowed me to publish nine courses on Udemy, contribute to open-source projects (I’m in the top 1% of contributors on GitHub), and maintain several YouTube channels and blogs in both French and English. I’ve written five or six books, and I keep updating them. I even find time for sports and long walks.
Having a purpose, having goals, is the greatest gift you can give yourself. — Pierre
Why It Works
People often think I must be stressed or overwhelmed, but it’s the opposite. I do a lot because I genuinely enjoy it. The secret is that it feels like play, not work. I’m almost addicted to the pleasure of creating, building, and learning. That’s why it’s so important that whatever you choose to do, it should bring you real joy.
Visualization isn’t just for athletes. Think of your day like a marathon—not something to suffer through, but something to enjoy, step by step. The more you practice, the more natural it becomes. And the more you believe in yourself, the more you’ll achieve.
Believe in yourself. That’s the best gift you can give. — Pierre
Regularity and Self-Confidence
Every day, I tell myself: “Today will be an exceptional day. Today will be fantastic. I will succeed in everything I set out to do. I know I’m capable.” This isn’t just positive thinking—it’s a habit that shapes my actions and my results.
Regularity pays off. Confidence in yourself is the foundation of everything. — Pierre
Make It Your Own
You don’t need to copy my schedule or my projects. The real lesson is to visualize your day, organize your time, and do what you love, regularly. That’s how you get more done, feel happier, and live a fuller life.
Key Takeaways
- Visualize your day every morning. Picture exactly what you want to accomplish.
- Prioritize your most important tasks when your mind is fresh.
- Be consistent—do a little every day, rather than trying to do everything at once.
- Focus on one thing at a time. Multitasking is overrated.
- Choose activities that bring you real joy. Productivity should feel like play, not punishment.
- Believe in yourself. Confidence fuels action.
Action Steps
- Tomorrow morning, take five minutes to visualize your day before you do anything else.
- Pick one important task and do it first, before distractions set in.
- Repeat this routine every day for a week and notice the difference.
Reflection
- What would your ideal day look like if you planned it in advance?
- Are you spending your time on things that truly matter to you?
- How can you make your daily routine more enjoyable and meaningful?
Pierre-Henry Soria
#Nomad #Personal Development #Productivity #Self-Improvement #Self-Transcendence #Tasks #Tech #Time-Management #Work-Life Balance