7 Fun Ways to Speed Up Your Productivity
By Kevin Daum, Contributor
Some days I just seem to move faster than others. It could be my mood, the weather or, perhaps, the a fun night out the evening before. Whatever the reason, working slow seems to make me feel worse for the wear, and I just have to do something to pick up the pace. Coffee is always an option, but I really prefer to use natural means to accelerate. It helps me avoid a crash later on in the day.
Here are seven of my favorite ways to pickup the tempo.
Narrow your focus.
Distraction is the thing that slows me down the most. It could be email or funny videos, but once I start down the path of distraction, time just seems to slip away. Shut yourself away from the noise and contacts that impede you. Find your center and power away.
Run around the block.
A little physical activity goes a long way to perk you up. You may think it will exhaust you, but actually, you will sit down with an energetic endorphin buzz. If it’s cold out, you’ll get that extra brisk pick me up.
Listen to ’80s music.
Nothing sets the pulsing drive of productivity like Oingo Boingo, Devo or “Walk Like an Egyptian” from the Bangles. This music will set a powerful pace and may help with focus as well, since you’ll probably put some distance between you and your coworkers if you are singing along.
Watch car chase scenes.
The “Fast and Furious” was designed to get your blood pumping. Just a few videos of cars swerving and crashing will raise your pulse. You’ll be looking to release that nervous energy as quick as possible.
Use an egg timer.
I don’t like to clock watch minute by minute, but there must be something about three-minute intervals. They tune my mind to being productive. I find the soothing visual of falling calming while it constantly reminds me time is running out. Just set some three-minute targets on your work and flip the thing over. You’ll be amazed what you can accomplish in that short span.
Set yourself a reward.
If I am slogging through an important project, I will often offer myself a treat. It might be a break or a particular meal I have wanted to try. I simply set a deadline and make a deal with myself. Of course, if I miss the deadline I won’t treat myself. I like to play fair.
Race a colleague.
A little friendly competition never hurt anybody. Set a challenge with a colleague and do a little trash talking as well. Push each other to get things done and right. Set up an office pool and you can get productive and a little richer as well.
Like this column? Sign up to subscribe to email alerts and you’ll never miss a post.
Want more Kevin? Here are 3 more columns by Kevin available on Inc.
