Increase Productivity

You know all those people who have told you “work smarter, not harder,” and you’re like “what the heck does it mean to work smarter?!”

I mean, the words all make sense. I understand the word “work” and I understand the word “smarter”, but nobody ever really broke it down for me in concrete ways how to do it.

Well, you’re welcome.

Here are four ways you can work smarter and increase productivity:

  • 90
  • 20
  • 7-ish
  • 4.6

Ninety

As it turns out, our body works best in 90 minute cycles. Even when you’re sleeping, your body acts in consecutive 90 minute cycles, which enhances rest and recovery. Similarly, an awake body works in 90 minute cycles of enhanced focus and productivity with 20 minute troughs intended for recovery.

The bottom line?

In order to increase productivity, you should never work for more than 90 minutes at a time.

You don’t have to believe me, believe all the studies that prove it. Read this. Or this. Or just look at this simple chart.