Boosting Productivity: Science-Backed Ways to Beat Procrastination

As a busy individual, you are often pressed for time, with numerous tasks to complete in a short span. However, despite your best efforts, you have been struggling to get through your daily to-do list lately. Your workload and breaks have not changed, so what could be causing the problem?

Understanding the science behind productivity may hold the key to unlocking your potential. Here are five science-backed ways to boost productivity, starting today.

1. List Your Mindless Tasks

Have you ever been in the middle of one task when another one popped into your head, causing a momentary lapse in focus and feeling overwhelming? Studies conducted by researchers have shown that multitasking may work in certain contexts. In particular, when doing mindless activities like laundry, washing dishes, and cleaning, which tend to take up a lot of time, pair them with other activities that are more enjoyable but not as demanding, like listening to a podcast or watching a TV show. Multitasking in this way enables you to complete your chores while acquiring new knowledge or being entertained.

2. Tick Off Some Smaller Tasks in the Morning

Distractions are productivity killers but getting into a flow state can help eliminate distractions. One way to achieve this is by beginning your day with a series of smaller tasks, as this can heighten your focus and productivity. Completing many smaller tasks at once can make you feel more productive and free up time later in the day for more significant projects and breaks.

3. Set SMART Goals Daily

Sometimes we need a motivational push to overcome roadblocks to productivity. Setting daily goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Results-focuses, and Time-bound (SMART) can help. With SMART goals, you can define precisely what you need to do and the outcome you want to have achieved by the end of the day. Goals need to be realistic, and breaking up larger tasks into smaller goals can help.

4. Just Start

Procrastination is a major barrier to productivity, and the failure to start tasks can sabotage your success. Initiating tasks with a quick beginning can increase your productivity. The key is to force yourself to start, with activities that take no more than a few seconds, and then work up to more extended tasks. This approach eliminates the chance of second-guessing, so you can get more done.

5. Schedule Relaxation Time

Blocking out time for relaxation may sound counterproductive, but studies suggest that it can help increase productivity. Taking breaks is necessary because cramming all of your work at once will lead to burnout, disengagement, and decreased work performance. So, make sure to take breaks and, during these breaks, do things that allow your mind to wander and recharge.

By combining activities, pushing yourself into a flow state, setting SMART goals, and getting started—interspersed with the occasional break— you can boost your productivity, improve your time management capacity, and stay on task even when you need a breather.

In conclusion, productivity is a highly valued commodity. Utilize these science-backed suggestions to increase and maximize your productivity. By doing so, you can finish what needs to be done with time to spare.