I love productivity methods – I think it’s because I’m lazy, but feel bad about it. I was browsing YouTube a couple of months ago and stumbled on a productivity technique that has really worked for me. (And it’s a technique, not a hack – only wankers say ‘hack’.)
In case you don’t know Andrew Huberman, he’s a neuroscientist who runs the Huberman Lab podcast. He is one of those experts people seem to get on their shows when they need someone who is smart and can talk eloquently about brain and medical stuff. He seems clever.
It is a really simple technique that relates to the perfect length of time to focus on a single task. The video is below, but if you want a quick summary – it is 90 minutes. Ok, that was pretty quick. Here is something slightly longer.
Why 90 minutes is the perfect length for productivity and focus
Basically, our brain works in cycles, such as with circadian rhythms and the various stages of sleep. This also applies to when we are awake and how we focus.
Studies have shown that after 90 minutes our brains start to tire and our ability to focus starts to wane. So for maximum productivity, focus on a task for around 90 minutes. Kind of like a long Pomodoro. Then unwind for 10-20 minutes by doing something unproductive and/or relaxing. Like going for a walk or reading a good book. (Like one of these!)
It has been a massive improvement on the Pomodoro method
I am a big fan of the Pomodoro method, where you work for 25 minutes, then chill for 5 minutes. But it never quite worked for me. I would write and start to get into a good flow, then would be told to take a break. Then I would read a little, and just as the book started to grip me, I would then have to write again. Consequently, I ended up taking longer breaks and skipping others.
The moment I tried this Huberman thing, it worked. I am coming from the point of view of a writer and editor, so when I get a good flow going, I hate having to stop. But after 90 straight minutes, I naturally found the flow ending. Also, 20 to 30 minutes for a break means I can relax by reading more, or I can do some exercise, and so on.
This genuinely improved my workflow and my life, so thought I would share. I am also not giving the Pomodoro method a hard time, as this is pretty similar. Whatever works for you is the best option.
Here is the video. Enjoy.
