Did you know that chewing gum can enhance focus and boost cognitive performance? Studies have shown that repetitive chewing increases blood flow to the brain, keeping you alert and productive. Welcome to the world of unusual productivity hacks—those weird yet surprisingly effective tricks that can help you get more done without exhausting yourself.
Traditional productivity methods like to-do lists, time-blocking, and prioritization work, but sometimes, unconventional tricks can make all the difference. In this blog, we’ll explore bizarre yet science-backed hacks that will help you boost efficiency and reclaim your time.
The “Two-Minute Rule” Meets The “Five-Second Rule”
You might have heard of the Two-Minute Rule, popularized by productivity expert David Allen, which states that if a task takes less than two minutes, do it immediately. However, pairing it with Mel Robbins’ Five-Second Rule—where you count down from five to one before taking action—can make it even more effective.
How It Works:
- If a task takes under two minutes, start it immediately.
- If you feel resistance, count backwards from five and just do it.
Example: Procrastinating on replying to emails? Count “5-4-3-2-1” and type a quick response instead of overthinking it.
The “Ugly” To-Do List Method
Sometimes, making a perfectly structured to-do list can be overwhelming. Instead, try the Ugly To-Do List Method, where you jot down tasks in an unorganized, messy format.
How It Works:
- Instead of categorizing tasks, write them chaotically.
- Prioritize them based on urgency and importance.
- Cross them off in no particular order.
Example: If writing a structured list feels like a chore, scribbling down tasks on a sticky note can free up mental space while still keeping you accountable.
Work to Music That’s Too Fast or Too Slow
Listening to music is a well-known productivity hack, but did you know that high-tempo or extremely slow music can push your brain into focus mode?
How It Works:
- Fast-paced music (above 150 BPM) can boost energy and alertness.
- Slow, ambient sounds (like Lo-Fi or binaural beats) can improve concentration and reduce distractions.
Example:
- Try electronic or classical music while working on tasks requiring deep focus.
- Experiment with fast techno when working on repetitive, low-effort tasks.
The Coffee Nap Trick
It sounds counterintuitive, but drinking coffee before a 20-minute nap can give you an energy boost when you wake up.
How It Works:
- It takes approximately 20 minutes for caffeine to take effect.
- Taking a power nap after drinking coffee helps clear adenosine (a sleep-inducing chemical), making caffeine even more effective.
Example: If you feel sluggish in the afternoon, drink coffee and set a 20-minute timer for a quick nap. You’ll wake up refreshed and alert.
Wear the Same Outfit Every Day
Decision fatigue is real, and successful people like Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg wore the same outfit every day to conserve mental energy for more important decisions.
How It Works:
- Create a “work uniform” with a few go-to outfits.
- Minimize unnecessary decisions in the morning.
Example: Choose 3-4 outfits for work and rotate them to reduce morning stress and decision overload.
Work in Extreme Temperatures
Did you know your body responds to temperature changes by increasing alertness? Cold showers or warm environments can boost productivity.
How It Works:
- A quick cold shower in the morning can enhance mental clarity.
- Working in a slightly cool room (around 18°C or 64°F) improves focus.
Example: If you feel drowsy, a 30-second cold splash on your face can wake you up instantly.
Conclusion
Productivity doesn’t always have to be about strict schedules and rigid rules. Sometimes, the strangest tricks work best! Whether it’s chewing gum, taking coffee naps, or listening to extreme music, experimenting with these unusual productivity hacks can help you discover what works best for you.
Try one of these hacks today and see how it improves your focus and efficiency. Have a unique productivity trick? Share it in the comments below!
Author’s Note
I love discovering and testing out quirky productivity techniques! If you found these hacks helpful, subscribe for more insights into time management, personal development, and life hacks.
G.C., Ecosociosphere contributor.
