1. Avoid C.P.A (constant partial attention)
Wonder why you're unproductive? Try switching off the gadgets (phone, blackberry, email). Give your full attention to the task at hand. You will finish what you started, and in half the time too!

2. Work when you're most productive
If you're like me, you're at your best mid-morning so it's best to plan your day so that your work that requires the most attention will be allocated to that time. For people like us, there is no point even thinking about completing work after 7pm because our brains just won't function efficiently. So, think about when you are most alert and schedule your time and tasks accordingly.

3. Dedicate the most amount of time to tasks that will get you where you want to go
Allocate large chunks of time to work on large goals. These things are often creative and require large amounts of concentration to get in the groove of what you're doing. By giving these tasks the time they need you will get where you want to go much quicker.

4. Lock in time for yourself
When we get busy the first thing sacrificed is often exercise, rest or a healthy meal. Make these priority items the same way you make going to work a 'must do' activity. Book them into your diary and don't compromise; after all, if you're not eating or resting well, you won't perform as well as you can.

5. Get efficient
Find ways to save time. Try allocating two cook nights per week. On these nights cook three or four dishes then store them in Tupperware so you can use them on other nights, giving you back the hours you want to do the things you'd rather be doing. These meals can also be used to create a cost-effective healthy lunch the following day.

6. Stick to the plan
There is no point planning your diary if you aren't going to stick to it. So be realistic when planning. It's your diary so make it work for you. Try having a consistent time each week to set out your schedule for the coming period.

7. Dedicate room for the unpredictable
Life rarely runs smoothly and we all get frustrated when things don't go to plan, especially me. A well thought out schedule leaves room for change. After all, the definition of a fool is 'someone who does the same thing every day expecting a different outcome.' So, the only way to get a different outcome is to ACT differently.

Don't be a fool, apply these simple tips, you'll be surprised at how efficient and successful you will become this year. Good luck!