Increase your productivity by changing your mindset

I can say with a certain degree of confidence that I have successfully managed to curb down my habit of procrastination. It wasn’t with the help of the advice of the so-called ‘productivity gurus’, rather it was through a very simple piece of advice that I happened to stumble upon on a podcast.

To do something, you need to actually get yourself there.

And that’s about all you need to turn your life around. Let’s take a simple example to understand how this concept works.

Imagine it being an 8:00 AM on a Monday morning and you have to get done with an important assignment. With the temptations of procrastinating- watching Netflix rather than doing your job, you have a choice to make.

Here comes the fun part- you choose to watch Netflix? Okay. But go do it at your workstation. Even if you initially end up watching Netflix, your subconscious will keep poking away at the fact that you have an assignment to submit. Eventually, you do give in and get the job done.

This simply means that you are more likely to end up doing something when you are physically stationed at the assigned place.

More likely to get a workout in, if you’re at the gym.

More likely to get a presentation done if you’re at your desk.

More likely to do the dishes if you’re standing near them.

Why waking up early (at 5 AM) doesn’t cut the buck

Not everyone is a morning person which is why it’s hard for people to get that productive morning start.

‘Routines are necessary but should not be restrictive’

Instead, what you should be focusing on is doing your ONE most important activity during that part of the day when you’re feeling great. It can be after an afternoon nap or an evening run or even before bed. The more personalized your schedule feels, the more likely you are to meeting your goals.

Avoid The Distractions:

You want to be getting as much done as possible during your productive time. Try minimizing the distractions around you to prolong your state of flow.

Simple things like turning off the notifications of your phone, closing all the browser tabs that are unnecessary, and de-cluttering your workstation will allow you precisely that.

Another trivial yet beneficial hack that you can use is to set up a work-only email. This will allow you to filter out work-related emails to spam and prevent complacency.

Re-energize and rejuvenate:

It cannot be stressed enough as to how important recovery is- be it after a workout at the gym or a workout at your workplace.

Everyone needs an occasional break and so do you!

In 2016, productivity expert Scott Barry Kaufman did a study that revealed 72% of people get creative ideas in the shower. Why? Because they are relaxed and not thinking about anything in particular, especially not about their work.

Try and maximize your day off by completely immersing in the experience be it spending time with your family, or a session in solitude.

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