Productivity Adapted from Dr. Jon Finn’s best-selling book, The Habit Mechanic, this guide explores why we often procrastinate on mentally demanding tasks and offers practical strategies to overcome it.
Procrastination typically arises from two main factors: the significant energy required for mentally challenging work and the lack of immediate rewards associated with it. Our brains, naturally inclined towards instant gratification, prefer tasks that offer quick rewards—like checking emails or scrolling through our phones—over more demanding tasks.
To enhance your productivity and focus, it’s essential to develop habits that help you manage this tendency. Implementing the following six strategies can help you make the most of each day, complete your most challenging work, and boost your creativity and problem-solving skills.
1. Identify Your Daily Motivations
Richie McCaw, former All Black captain, once used a McDonald’s napkin to map out his path to becoming a top rugby player. By linking his long-term goals with his daily tasks, McCaw found clarity and motivation. Similarly, understanding your reasons for wanting to be productive today will help you connect your immediate actions to your broader objectives.
2. Embrace Single-Tasking
Think of your brain as having different “Brain States”: recharging, medium charge, and high charge. Multitasking, which mixes these states, can lead to mistakes and wasted time. Focus on single-tasking to fully engage with one type of work at a time. This approach helps optimize your productivity and reduces stress.
3. Utilize Focus Words and Pictures
World-class cyclist Sir Bradley Wiggins used Focus Words and Pictures to break the world record for distance cycled in one hour. By concentrating on motivational phrases and vivid mental images of success, he maintained his focus. Adopt similar techniques to enhance your own concentration and performance.
4. Optimize Your Brain States
To make the most of your Brain States, take proactive steps. For instance, enhance your recharge state with quality sleep and regular exercise, while optimizing your high-charge state by organizing tasks into categories and scheduling focused work periods.
5. Refocus Quickly
When distractions arise, use mental cues—like picturing a spotlight refocusing on your task—to quickly regain concentration. This technique can save you significant time throughout the day, boosting your overall productivity.
6. Tackle Your Toughest Challenges
Identify when you face the greatest difficulties in your day and adapt your strategies accordingly. For example, adjusting your lunch habits and planning tasks before breaks can help you overcome midday slumps and maintain productivity.
By applying these strategies, you can significantly enhance your productivity and focus. For more insights on optimizing your productivity and achieving your goals, check out Tougher Minds’ article on supercharging your productivity and focus.
Build Better Focus and Productivity Habits
Start by implementing one small change and make it a habit. For further guidance, explore the “Will Power Story” tool in The Habit Mechanic to help integrate these strategies into your daily routine.
