Productivity Hacks
As we shake off the holiday haze and step into the New Year, now seems like a good time to remind ourselves of how to maximize (or let’s be honest, ignite) productivity. So I compiled a list of the hacks I use when I’m feeling like all I’ve been doing is staring blankly at my computer screen or reaching for my phone for a comforting distraction.
Binaural Beats Focus Music
Listening to specific frequencies allows the brain to tap into different states of consciousness. My favorite for focus is 13 Hz, which activates the Alpha brain waves and increases focus, concentration, and memory. Try it here.
POMODORO
The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method developed by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s. It breaks work into intervals, typically 25 minutes in length, separated by short breaks. This is how we roll at Momentum Monday. It allows us to dive deep for a short burst of time, then take a brain break to avoid burning out. It’s especially effective at mitigating the dangers of being on a roll such as forgetting to eat, pee, or hydrate.
Shower & dress
Taking a shower (cold or hot) will reset your nervous system in a variety of ways. It’s a good opportunity to quell distracting thoughts, feel rejuvenated, and reprioritize the day ahead. As far as getting dressed, it’s simple: look good, feel good. We all know that.
Switch Environments
Sometimes a lack of productivity has to do with how we relate to the space we are in. If you work from home for example, you probably associate your living space with time off, relaxation, etc. So moving yourself to a new environment, like the library or a coffee shop, can help you drop into a more focused headspace.
Sticky Notes
The feeling of being totally overwhelmed by the number of tasks that lay ahead can be debilitating. When that happens, I’ll take a sticky note and write down what I need to do in priority order. Whatever doesn’t fit on the sticky note gets left to tomorrow’s work. Come on, you can expect yourself to do more than what fits on a 2x2 sheet of paper. Take it one step further and write the leftover tasks on another note or two and let those inform your days following.
Move (or don’t!)
Have you ever worked so much that your brain is short-circuiting and you’re making mistakes or moving slower than normal? If you’re burnt out, maybe you need to look at something other than a screen for a bit! Or take a damn nap! I always say that rest can be more productive than productivity. Take the day off or go for a walk and reset your brain. Distracted working is a waste of your time. Go reset and come back when you’re ready to maximize your efforts.
I hope this list of hacks was helpful to you! If you have other tips, please leave them in the comments to help others who read this.
And if you’re in Austin, Texas, join us every Monday for structured coworking that sets the tone for a productive week! https://www.meetup.com/momentum-monday/
