Describe the Issue or Situation.

Productivity allows us to make progress and complete necessary tasks. However, due to time constraints, competing responsibilities, stressors, and personal tendencies such as procrastination, we often are not as productive as we want to be. To enhance productivity skills within the local community and assist individuals in learning strategies to maximize their time and output, especially in the workplace, the University of Kentucky Extension Service developed the Time Well Spent: Productivity Skills for Success program.

Describe the Outreach or Educational Program Response (and Partners, if applicable).

Because employee productivity ultimately strengthens both individual workplaces and the economic viability of communities at large, the Spencer County Extension partnered with the Spencer County library participants and the Spencer County KEHA homemakers’ groups to offer Time Well Spent: Productivity Skills for Success, Productivity Versus Procrastination on 2/4/25, ten participants received two hours of direct, hands-on education. Participants were surveyed following the class.

Provide the Number and Description(s) of Participants/Target Audience.

Statistically significant means increases in knowledge were reported in organizing their home, being able to define productivity, and increasing job productivity. 100% of all participants planned to make significant behavior changes to take steps to organize their home, improve personal productivity, and create productivity routines.

Provide a Statement of Outcomes or Program Impact. 

The words of the participants, however, often speak about the success of a program. One participant noted that the program has helped her realize the importance of taking an active role in decluttering her home. She said, “I don’t want to leave clutter for my children to manage when the time comes. It's better to downsize now that I have mobility.”