We live in a world of choices. When we buy, we have to make a choice between varieties, brands, and sizes. Similarly, when we work we have to decide what to focus on and how to use our time. While prioritization helps us focus, our minds still have the tendency to wander. We are most likely to focus on whatever catches our eye. Along the lines of “out of sight, out of mind” we learn that “right before our eyes, actions thrive.”

It is no secret that design is a critical element of productivity. Design helps us organize thoughts and maintain a sense of order amidst creative chaos. However, design is also a valuable tool for managing our own attention span. Design can help us advertise actions to ourselves.

Think of it as your own personal Madison Avenue marketing agency. You have some critical, time-intensive projects that will require your energy and relentless focus. Your time is precious currency. How are you going to advertise the project – and its many action steps – to yourself?

When you have a project that is tracked with a beautiful chart or elegant sketchbook, you are more likely to focus on it. The attention you give to various parts of your life is an emotional choice. Recognize the power of a personal productivity marketing strategy, then launch a few advertising campaigns!

Some Tips for Advertising Action To Yourself!

• Keep Variety: Colorful post-it notes have a huge following. However, when you use too many of one color, you will start tuning them out! Use different colors and materials to keep your advertising fresh.?

• Seek Quality: You are most likely to stay loyal to an organization system when you are attracted to it! The little details (the pens you use, the paper, the design) make a big difference.

• Be Bold: The Behance team has found that bold methods are the best methods when it comes to featuring action steps. Think big signs and screen savers with project names or energy maps!

Behance articles and tips are adapted from the writing and research of Scott Belsky and the Behance team. Behance runs the Behance Creative Network , the Creative Jobs List, and develops knowledge, products, and services that help creative professionals make ideas happen.

All Information (c) Scott Belsky, Behance LLC