Lately, as the year wraps up and the holiday rush is in full swing, I’ve noticed many of you in merchant services reaching out, often starting with, “I know you must be absolutely swamped this time of year!”
I get it. Between last minute installs, holiday parties, and all the follow-ups, it’s easy to feel like you’re pulling Santa’s sleigh 24/7. But here’s the cold, hard truth of Q4: There’s a massive difference between being busy and being productive.
I know plenty of salespeople who are busy—their calendars are packed like a gift sack, they’re always rushing, stressed, and seem to be flying by the seat of their red-and-green pants. Busyness does not equal success. It just means you’re running around like a startled reindeer.
We all get the same 24 hours to fill our stocking of accomplishments. How you spend that time is what separates the “Nice” list closers from the “Naughty” list chasers.
My holiday wish for all of is simple: Quit being busy and start being productive. Let’s stop wasting time on low-value activities and start making every second count toward getting those deals signed before the New Year rings in.
Unwrap Your Day with a Morning Routine
Productivity begins before the first carol plays. Starting your morning on the right foot is like getting a head start on the first door pull—it massively impacts your motivation, focus, and stress levels for the rest of the day.
- Win the Morning, Win the Day: Begin with self-care—maybe 15 minutes of quiet reflection (meditating) or a quick exercise session. Treat it like a valuable appointment.
Set Your Daily “Gift-Giving” Goals (SMARTly!)
Don’t just chase shiny objects. Set a priority list of what needs to get done. An effective way to do this is to ensure your goals are S.M.A.R.T. (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Timely).
- Example Goal: “Sign 3 new restaurants (Specific/Measurable) in the downtown area (Relevant) by Friday (Timely) by booking 15 quality appointments today (Attainable).”
The Gift of Good Rest
Being productive also means making sure your batteries are charged for the day’s sprint. Think of sleep as your body and mind’s essential maintenance.
- Stick to Your Sleep Schedule: Turn off the TV and put the tablet away. Create a quiet, comfortable environment ideal for sleeping. A well-rested salesperson is a sharp salesperson!
Fuel Your Inner Elf
You are what you eat, and your body is the engine that drives those sales calls!
- Eat Healthish & Stay Active: Be mindful of what you’re fueling your body with (maybe swap that extra holiday cookie for some brain food). Exercise is crucial for both body and mind—it lowers stress, enhances energy, and improves your overall mood.
Schedule a Hot Cocoa Break
Keep this in mind: Sometimes, the most productive thing you can do is take a purposeful break.
- The Power of the Pause: Schedule time for breaks and fun. Stepping away from the screen or phone will increase your productivity, energy, and ability to focus when you return.
- Reward System: Set goals and develop a reward system for meeting them. Celebrate those small victories—they’re the sparkle on your tree!
You have a choice right now. Don’t confuse the hustle (busyness) with the closing (productivity). Begin today by working toward your goals and commit to making every second count.
You’ve got this! This is your time to shine! Choose to be productive!
Happy Selling,
David
Payment Lynx Daily 