PRODUCTIVITY THROUGH DISRUPTIONS

Image Source: Pexels – Photo by Ivan Samkov

In our fast-paced world, productivity is often seen as the ultimate goal and destination that we all need to achieve. In most cases, we are guided through it, or the approach is one-size-fits-all, which doesn’t always work and can leave those aspiring to be productive feeling drained. We’re encouraged to work harder, faster, and smarter to achieve more in less time. However, this pursuit can sometimes come with a set of disruptions that affect our productivity and, ultimately, our well-being.  It’s important to identify these disruptions in our own lives and understand which ones we have control over and which ones we don’t so that we can navigate our workspace effectively. 

One of the major disruptions that we have been increasingly facing as a country is load shedding, which affects network connectivity and, in turn, affects business operations, leading to low levels of productivity. Whether you’re working in an office or running your own business, your day-to-day operations can be affected. It’s like trying to run a marathon with a ball and chain attached to your ankle!

But, did you know that disruptions can also present an opportunity for growth and innovation? 

Disruption can take many forms, from trying a new workout routine to experimenting with a new work strategy. By approaching disruption with a positive mindset, we can view it as an opportunity to break out of the mundane and grow our creativity, inspiration, and ultimately, productivity.

When thinking about your level of productivity, do you ever think about passion and purpose?   We believe passion and purpose are linked to a high level of productivity. When we are passionate about what we do and feel a sense of purpose in our work, we are more likely to be motivated, focused, and engaged. This can lead to increased productivity, as we are willing to put in the time and effort needed to achieve our goals. Passion and purpose also provide a sense of direction and meaning in our work, leading to greater satisfaction and fulfilment. 

Embracing change can be rewarding and opens us up to new opportunities and experiences that can lead to growth and increased productivity. It’s important to note that disruption shouldn’t be seen negatively as merely constant change, instead, it’s about finding the right balance between routine and disruption. By experimenting with new ideas and strategies, we can discover what works best for us and ultimately achieve our goals. 

In conclusion, disruption may seem counterintuitive to productivity, but it can actually be the key to unlocking our full potential. By embracing change, experimenting with new ideas, and disrupting our routines, we can break through productivity barriers and achieve our goals. So, the next time you feel stuck in a rut, try disrupting your routine – you just might be surprised at what you can accomplish. 

Remember, passion and purpose are the foundation for productivity, so find what drives you and let it lead you to success.

Below find a list of tools and activities that can help with increasing your level of productivity:

Time tracking apps: These apps help you keep track of how much time you spend on different tasks, which can help you identify areas where you can improve your productivity.

To-do list apps: These apps help you create and organize your daily tasks, making it easier to stay on top of everything you need to do.

Pomodoro timer: This is a time management technique where you work for a set period of time (usually 25 minutes) and then take a short break (usually 5 minutes). This helps break up your workday into manageable chunks and can increase focus and productivity.

Listening to music: Music can have a significant impact on productivity and can help individuals stay focused, motivated, and energized throughout the day.

Mind mapping software: These programs help you visualize your ideas and plan out your projects. This can be a useful tool for brainstorming and organizing your thoughts.

White noise apps: These apps play background noise that can help drown out distracting sounds and increase focus.

Exercise and eating healthy: Regular exercise mixed with healthy eating has been shown to improve mood, energy levels, and cognitive function, all of which can contribute to increased productivity.

Being one with nature: Spending time in natural environments can improve cognitive function, attention span, and creativity. Being surrounded by trees, greenery, and fresh air can reduce stress levels and increase positive emotions, leading to a more relaxed and focused state of mind.

Meditation: Practicing mindfulness meditation can help reduce stress and increase focus, which can lead to improved productivity.

Time management techniques: There are many time management techniques, such as the Eisenhower Matrix, that can help you prioritize tasks and make the most of your time.

Proper sleep: Getting enough sleep is crucial for optimal brain function and can help improve productivity throughout the day.

Delegating tasks: If you have too much on your plate, delegating tasks to others can help you free up time and focus on the most important tasks.