Sometimes it feels like there’s so much to do, with so little time.
If you find yourself working hard for hours on end, but somehow still manage to get lost in the sauce with overdue deadlines, rescheduled appointments, and cancelled social outings; odds are you’ve probably tried everything from day planners to to-do lists in hopes of maximizing your efficiency rate. If you’re reading this, odds are that those tactics might not be working out for you.
But don’t panic!
Maybe it’s about time you ditch those traditional textbook-style productivity tips, and take on the challenge of incorporating these 5 unconventional ways to get shit done!
- Create A Playlist
Studies show that listening to music can be beneficial when trying to work or get the creative juices flowing. According to an article on theguardian.com, our brains process attention using two operating systems; a conscious one that enables us to choose what task to focus our attention on, and the unconscious which is dictated by what our senses are attracted to. Issues occur when our unconscious seems to overpower our conscious—AKA, distractions.
Music can be beneficial in this situation, as it provides just enough non-invasive noise not to disrupt, but still offers enough action for us to stay attentive. Of course, the study goes into a much greater Bill Nye the Science Guy type explanation, but all in all, you now have the OK to sign into Apple Music, Pandora, and Spotify because a good playlist goes a long way. Science says so!
- Bring The Heat
A study from Cornell University found that colder temperatures tend to be distracting and make employees more prone to errors, while temperatures upward of 77 degrees improve accuracy and overall production rates. So, if you find yourself shivering at your desk, bring the heat…literally. Invest in a space heater and watch yourself make all of those nearly impossible deadlines.
- Netflix & Chill
It’s easy to binge on your couch and end up wasting hours of your precious time staring at the screen. But, who says that a hardcore Netflix and Chill sesh can’t be beneficial, or maybe even productive? If burying your nose in a textbook or scouring Wikipedia isn’t your cup of tea, try visuals, documentaries to be exact. Change the game and invite some of your classmates or coworkers over to your place for a night of enrichment. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, part of a corporate team, or simply looking for motivation to get moving in life; there are plenty of free business-inspired films that can help encourage you to be more productive. These are our recommendations:
- Generation Startup
- Jiro Dreams of Sushi
- Steve Jobs: One Last Thing
- Do Nothing at All
The average person would preach that keeping busy and creating schedule consistency would be the best way to stay productive, but have you ever wondered why some of your brightest ideas may have manifested while daydreaming, or essentially doing nothing at all? It’s because for a split moment you’ve disassociated from reality and have allowed your brain to freely think without structure. Like a muscle, taking mental breaks from work let’s your mind be at ease, which in turn can lead to new and innovative thoughts.
- Take Naps At Work
You’ve probably heard horror stories of things that have happened to workers found sleeping on the job, but after an average of 8 hours of nonstop brainpower, it’s a bit ridiculous for employers to think that you’d be able to work at their greatest potential while exhausted.
A Greek company called Studio NL even designed an under-desk fortress. The prototype features a mattress and a headrest that fits perfectly in a cubicle, for those long days when a cat nap would do you wonders. Unfortunately, my guess is that your boss isn’t cool enough to let you doze off while on the clock. Nonetheless sleep is important for proper brain function and proficiency, and you can fit in a few zzz if you plan well. Our advice, consider using your lunch hour to nap.
My favorite place is in my car. It’s not the Ritz Carlton, but it gets the job done when I need a little R&R. Or if there’s a nearby park, bring a blanket and soak up some much needed vitamin D while you recharge.
Like your smartphone, you’ll feel fully charged and ready to work!
