The Science of Productivity

Author

Andrew Cervantes
August 15, 2023

“Even to think wrongly is better than not to think at all”


- Hypatia

The Science of Productivity

I heard a phrase the other day during some research that I think everyone should hear -

Innovation is the currency of success.


Now I understand how insignificant a phrase like that may sound to some people, but let’s think about it. History has proven time and time again that the civilizations and species which live the longest all have one thing in common… adaptability. They weren't the strongest, the bravest, or the smartest, but they could adapt to change.

This phrase encapsulates the mantra of ‘survival of the fittest.’


The very essence of productivity is undergoing a transformative shift. We’re living through an economic and digital revolution, and with it comes a redefinition of what it truly means to be productive.

Let’s get into how you can take advantage of the changing principles of productivity.

  1. Agricultural Revolution - Maximizing Land: productivity was often measured by how much land one owned.

  2. Industrial Revolution - The Race Against the Clock: As the world embraced the Industrial Revolution, productivity was associated with optimizing repetitive tasks within a limited time frame. Faster and more efficient execution was the key to success.

  3. Current Revolution - The Power of Intelligent Solutions: Today, it's not just about the sheer quantity of work but also the quality of your solutions. Productivity is defined by your ability to think critically, ask the right questions, and approach problems with creativity and innovation.

Key Insights

So, how can you become one of those individuals who consistently achieves more, who seems to have an innate knack for getting things done?

The secret lies in recognizing the choices you have about how you think and control your thought processes. Here are some key insights to empower your journey towards peak productivity:

1. Mastering Your Mindset: Productive individuals understand that their brains are both powerful tools and malleable instruments. They have the ability to maintain focus, think probabilistically, and trigger innovation on demand. It's about fostering a creative environment within your mind.

2. Willpower Isn't Infinite: The notion of relying solely on willpower is outdated. Willpower can be depleted over time, leaving you drained and demotivated. Instead, adopt a more methodical approach. Remember that the hardest step is often the first one—getting started.

3. The Zeigarnik Effect: Once you begin a task, the Zeigarnik Effect kicks in. This psychological phenomenon compels us to complete tasks we've initiated. Incomplete tasks can lead to discomfort and intrusive thoughts, urging you to wrap things up.

So embrace your ability to make choices in how you think, giving you a fundamental advantage in a world where innovation reigns supreme.

The path to productivity is not just about working harder; it's about working smarter. It's about embracing the challenges of the modern age with a mindset that thrives on creativity, innovation, and the power of choice.

So, take that first step, harness your potential, and unleash a level of productivity you never thought possible.


The Challenge

Here's your challenge: Identify a task or project you've been tackling in a conventional manner. Take a step back and ask yourself: How can I approach this differently? Can I integrate a new tool or method? Can I leverage technology to streamline the process?

Remember, it's the small shifts that often lead to the most significant breakthroughs. Share your experience with us, and let's inspire each other's innovation journey!

Reply to me with a 👍️if you’ll be participating in this assignment and reach out if you have any questions or anything specific you’d like me to write about

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