Science Reveals The Real Truth About Productivity

Science-Backed & Behavirol Science Tips To Increase Productivity.

Feb 26, 2022

Top Productivity Tips for Business Leaders

In today’s busy world, people have become captivated with “productivity hacks” and getting more things done in less time. Being able to get things done in less time offers us more time to accomplish the things we enjoy doing outside of work. Right?

The problem is that it is widely assumed by many, me included, that working longer hours is the exclusive quintessential indicator of productivity and the only way to achieving more. However, an abundance of studies confutes the productivity myth that industriousness equates to higher productivity. It turned out that being productive means excelling at the tasks that generate the most value, not the most outcome.

Therefore, In this article, we are going to dig deep into exploring what scientific research and cognitive science reveal about the detrimental effects to productivity, along with some study-based secrets of maximizing productivity in our digital age.

🦸‍♀️Willpower is not enough

Firstly, in the pursuit of maximum productivity, it is essential to acknowledge the mountain of studies that indicate willpower is insufficient. Numerous studies suggest that willpower is an exhaustible source that can be entirely depleted.

In psychology, it’s called “ego depletion” which means that willpower is connected to a finite supply of mental energy, and once that supply is depleted, you're more prone to lose self-control.

Consequently, more methodical approaches, such as relying on habits and disciplined scheduling instead of relying on willpower, are being suggested. Habits will build that momentum that will keep you going even when you have zero willpower or are not motivated enough.

🥵 Getting started is the hardest part

According to research by Kenneth McGraw et.al (1982), the biggest barrier to productivity is getting started. We are prone to procrastinating on big projects as our brains tend to visualize the most arduous tasks ahead and stimulate productivity by focusing on small, insignificant tasks to fill time. Whereas the consequential tasks of the day remain unsolved.

A powerful technique that has shown its benefits is called "eat the frog" which should be implemented first thing in the morning. Taking immediate actions towards the necessary tasks first without overthinking is required.

The hardest part is starting. Once you get that out of the way. You’ll find the rest of the journey much easier. _ Simon Sinek

👌Taking regular breaks is crucial

This might seem counterintuitive and you might think that taking breaks slow down your productivity. In fact, according to a slew of scientific studies, breaks actually make you more focused, creative, and productive.

People had better focus and energy for longer lengths of time when they worked for 90 minutes followed by 15-20 minute breaks, according to a study done by the US Army Research Institute (2018). Because it corresponds to the body's natural rhythms of rest and alertness, 90 minutes is the perfect number for productivity.

The human brain operates in bursts of high activity that last roughly one and a half hours before switching to low activity for a period of time. Therefore, taking breaks while doing a project has shown its benefit to making one efficient and consistent.

🤹 Multitasking is a myth

Multitasking is a prevalent misperception to accomplish more in less time. Multitasking might actually reduce your productivity by diminishing your comprehension, concentration, and overall effectiveness.

According to an American Psychological Association study, Multitasking has been shown to be inefficient since it takes more time to swap gears when switching tasks. On the other hand, Doing one task at a time has proven to be much more effective.

“Never half-ass two things, whole-ass one thing.” _ Ron Swanson

✅ More Tips On How To Be More Productive

_ ⏲️ Find your productivity golden hours/environment.

Some of us might feel highly focused in the morning while night owls focus the best n the evening, so you need to find your own golden hours. With that being said, it is proven that our brainpower is at its peak in the morning. It is the same thing with the environment. So, set up a place to work that is only where you work.

_ 🎶 Music can put you in the good mood

According to a study published in The Journal Psychology of Music, students who listened to music in between activities were able to concentrate for longer periods of time and fared better academically.

_ ✍️ Plan your day the night before

Planning your day gives you a direction so you won't be distracted by the internet's amazing distractions when you start off your day.

_ Use a distraction blocker

According to studies by the Bureau of Labor Statistics and VoucherCloud, the average person is only productive for two hours and 53 minutes out of an eight-hour day.

_ Exercise first thing in the morning

According to Dr. Scott Collier of Appalachian State University's research, exercising first thing in the morning is the best option.

_ 😴Sleep well

Sleep deprivation makes you less productive at work, according to research. Try to obtain 7-8 hours of sleep each night. Taking a 20-minute nap during the day can also help you be more productive.

📍Conclusion

In summary, there are a variety of approaches to being more productive. It all starts with a thorough examination of your routines to see what is preventing you from being more productive. Since we are all different, not all of the above-mentioned tips will work for you. However, because these recommendations are backed by scientific evidence, they stand a strong chance of becoming useful to a greater population of individuals.