Rethinking Productivity: Unorthodox Methods for Success
Sometimes breaking the rules and doing the unconventional can bring you more good than harm. Productivity is a very subjective matter, and everyone perceives and practices it differently but there are some basic “rules” we have all been taught that are said to boost productivity. But what about things that aren’t so generalized? Those counterintuitive approaches can lead you to an unorthodox but effective path to success. Intrigued to know more? Let’s begin.
7 Unconventional Ways to Improve Productivity
Monotasking
We’ve all heard of multitasking, but have you heard of monotasking? Monotasking is when you dedicate your full focus and attention to one task at a time. Instead of the chaotic nature of multitasking, monotasking lets you enter a Flow State and use the full capacity of your mind to complete one task. This helps you generate a quality output while also making sure you finish off your task checklist.
Using pen on paper
We live in a digital age. It’s almost as though not having a laptop at work is a crime! However, research shows that putting things down in pen and paper can actually be more beneficial for you. Also, these small practices can reduce your screen time. In relation to paper, maintaining a journal can also help you stay productive and organized. Journalling acts as a brain dump and lets your mind roam freely, which encourages innovation and creativity to come through your work.
To be or not to be distracted
Did you know that small doses of harmless distractions can make you more productive? Research says that people function well with around 70 decibels of noise. Sometimes, white noise, such as the sounds we hear when we are in a café, can exercise your mind to be focused. Also, these environments are good for creative discussions as they fuel innovation.
Book a “Do Nothing” meeting
We’re always listing down tasks, scheduling meetings, or booking appointments but what about some time to just do nothing? Rather than jam packing your whole day with work and tasks, create pockets of relief with Do Nothing meetings. Here, you do nothing and let your mind rest. These can act as your breaks from work and can include stress-reducing activities like meditation or even a power nap!
Decelerate
Just like doing nothing is important, so is slowing down. We know life is a rat race, but even rats take breaks to snack on some cheese! The main point is that when you’re always running at a high speed of productivity, you are likely to experience diminishing returns and ultimately burnout. So, instead of letting it reach that point, remember to slow down now and then and work at a pace that’s comfortable for your mental health.
Do it tomorrow
You don’t always have to push yourself to finish your whole to-do list in one day. Instead, chalk out a plan that evenly spreads out your workload over a while. This helps set realistic goals and expectations and motivates you to finish your task list in small chunks. So, leave that task unfinished and create a fresh task list for tomorrow!
Find your rhythm
Let’s face it, you won’t be productive the whole day. You can’t deny it. But there are certain spaces throughout the day when your productivity levels are at their all-time high. For some people, it’s in the morning whereas for others it might be in the depths of the night. Regardless, recognizing these moments can help you find a rhythm for your task flow and help use that time to the fullest.
Wrapping Up
It’s important to keep in mind that what works for others might not work for you and vice versa. So, put these tips to the test and see if they make any difference to your productivity levels. You can track your progress for these activities through task management tools and see your performance once you’re done experimenting!
