Self-distraction is one of the biggest productivity challenges we face today.

It’s easy to get lost in the constant flow of thoughts. A simple “I need to remind Kevin to send me that document,” takes us away from our current activity, preventing us from completing the tasks that matter most. No wonder we feel overwhelmed and constantly rushing.

But here’s the good news: Today’s guest is on a mission to help managers and teams break free from this cycle of overwhelm and start getting things done effectively and efficiently.

Meet Mridu Parikh. Mridu is a productivity coach who helps busy professionals take control of their time, energy, and focus—so they can perform at their best without feeling overwhelmed. She empowers leaders and teams to reduce stress, prioritize effectively, and create lasting systems for success. She’s also the host of the top-ranked Productivity on Purpose podcast.

In this episode, we dive into Mridu’s ACTION framework—a seven-step approach to increasing productivity by minimizing distractions, committing to Power Hours, time blocking effectively, systemizing your approach, and more.

Beyond individual productivity tips, we also cover how teams can build a culture of focus and how to respectfully say no (even to your boss).

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Conversation Topics

(00:00) Introduction
(01:52) The surprising reason most of us are overwhelmed
(04:02) How to get things done using the ACTION framework
(16:26) Tips for getting everything out of your head
(18:42) Start small with focused work blocks
(20:45) Using technology to stay focused, not distracted
(22:49) How to say no to a team member and even your boss
(27:43) Why time planning is important
(28:27) A great manager Mridu has worked for
(29:36) Keep up with Mridu
(29:55) [Extended Episode Only] Time blocking vs. time planning
(33:12) [Extended Episode Only] How to build a productive culture as a team

Additional Resources:

- Get the extended episode by joining The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community for just $15 per month

- Read the full transcript here

- Follow me on Instagram here

- Visit my website for more here

- Upskill your team here

- Subscribe to my YouTube Channel here

- Check out OneTab here

Keep up with Mridu Parikh

- Follow Mridu on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook

- Subscribe to Mridu’s Productivity on Purpose Podcast here

- Grab a copy of her book, Accomplish It, here

30% Off A One-Hour Productivity Coaching Call

Mridu is offering 30% off a one-hour productivity coaching call to members of Podcast+.

During this call, Mridu will help you gain clarity, focus, and control over your time, so you can follow through on what matters most.

To get this bonus and many other member benefits, become a member of The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community.

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The Modern Manager is a leadership podcast for rockstar managers who want to create a working environment where people thrive, and great work gets done.

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368: The 7-Step Focus Formula Highly Productive People Swear By with Mridu Parikh

The Modern Manager