When I talk to business owners, I feel like everyone’s screaming, “all I need is a few more hours in the day…then, THEN I’ll be able to get everything done!” But let me tell you something, friend…

You don’t actually need more hours. You just need to work smarter.

Easier said than done, eh? But today I have a crazy simple — but useful — tip to help you utilize your hours in the most productive way possible. 

Get two desks.

They don’t even have to both be desks — just surfaces you can use. You could use a combination of coffee tables, dining tables, the top of your dog’s crate (maybe?) — whatever floats your boat.

Then, designate one area as your digital desk and the other as your no-technology-allowed desk. I told you it was simple, but trust me, it works.

Your no-technology-allowed desk is where you brainstorm, create ideas, and start putting them into action. If you’re a designer, it might be where you sketch some logo ideas. If you’re a blogger, perhaps you’ll map out future post ideas. Keep your tech-free supplies at this desk (or nearby) for easy access. Leave your phone, computer, tablet, roomba, and anything else that needs a battery at your other desk. Over time, this tech-free space will give you permission to do your work without feeling like you need to check in with the world every 12 minutes.

It also relieves you of distractions and allows you to come up with some neat ideas in a state of flow. “Flow” is actually a psychologically researched mental state, where someone is so immersed and focused on their work that they feel energized by it. The problem nowadays is that technology often prevents us from reaching this “flow-like” state. When we get close, our phones and computers beep and buzz, begging for our attention.

For the other desk? Yep, you guessed it. Use it for technology. Set it up with your computer, printer, and anything else you might need. I’d recommend leaving your phone out of the equation, but I’ll leave that choice up to you. This space is where you can take all of those ideas from desk #1 and put them in a digital or refined format.

Whichever desk you’re at, be mindful of the work you’re trying to accomplish. Technology has molded our brains so much that it can be difficult to detach ourselves from it. But if you put two desks into practice, I think you’ll find that your mind is more clear, focused, and ready to accomplish those big goals you’ve been working toward, if only Facebook weren’t a click away.

By the way, in case you’re like, “dude what is that gorgeous marble thing in all these pictures?” then I am here to let you know that it’s this kitchen stand from Sauder. I think it’s meant for wine bottles and plates of cheese, but I use it as my go-to art supply corner when I need a creative break. It’s my no-technology-allowed workspace (see, told you it didn’t have to be a desk!). It also happens to be the perfect backdrop for blog photos andddd even has a cubby that my mini piñata has deemed his studio apartment. 😉 I’ve worked with Sauder before, and I’m always impressed with how budget-friendly, yet totally awesome they are. You can view their lookbook with more pretty furniture right here. High five to saving money and creating a space that allows your brain to fully awaken.

Would you ever put “two desks” into practice?

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Sauder. The opinions and text are all mine.