As we advance in our careers and in life, our list of tasks, priorities, obligations and deadlines tends to grow exponentially. With every additional responsibility we take on—and every new goal or aspiration we pursue—there is more and more to do, yet still only the same 24 hours in a day.
We talk to many clients who feel as though they are running at full speed on a hamster wheel, with no signs of slowing down and no clear way out. They often ask us for advice on how to prioritize better, be more effective and squeeze more productivity out of every waking hour.
Here are five surprising ways to boost your productivity, as outlined by Josh Davis, Ph.D., in his book Two Awesome Hours: Science-Based Strategies to Harness Your Best Time and Get Your Most Important Work Done. Dr. Davis, Director of Research at the NeuroLeadership Institute, draws on cutting-edge neuroscience to explain that the goal is not to do more faster—but to intentionally create conditions for at least two “awesome” hours of peak productivity each day.
1. Recognize Your Decision Points
Many of us move through the workday on autopilot, shifting from one task to the next and attending to whatever is immediately in front of us. Emails arrive, requests pile up, and before we know it, the day ends without meaningful progress on our highest priorities. We promise ourselves we’ll get to it “first thing tomorrow.”
To combat this pattern, Dr. Davis suggests pausing briefly when finishing one task before starting another. These moments—what he calls “decision points”—are opportunities to consciously choose where to focus your time and attention next, rather than being swept along by low-priority demands.
2. Manage Your Mental Energy
Some tasks require far more self-control and focused attention than others, and the human brain simply isn’t capable of sustaining high-level output indefinitely. Unlike a computer, our mental energy fluctuates throughout the day.
Becoming aware of your emotional state and energy levels is critical. Notice which tasks drain you, which energize you and when you naturally experience peaks and dips in focus. Once you understand your rhythms, you can schedule demanding work during times of peak mental energy and reserve lower-energy periods for less intensive tasks.
3. Stop Fighting Distractions
The human mind isn’t designed to focus on one thing continuously. In fact, it’s wired to seek novelty and stimulation. Ironically, the harder we try to suppress distractions, the more difficult it often becomes to concentrate.
Rather than exhausting your willpower, Dr. Davis suggests two strategies. First, remove predictable distractions from your environment. If you know you’ll be tempted by news feeds or notifications, keep them out of sight. Second, allow your mind to wander intentionally. Short breaks involving light activity or daydreaming between periods of focused work can enhance creativity and improve overall productivity.
4. Leverage the Mind-Body Connection
Research increasingly shows that our mental state is closely linked to our physical state. Moderate exercise, for example, can increase focus, improve mood and sharpen thinking for hours afterward.
You can use this connection strategically by exercising before an important meeting, a presentation or a mentally challenging task—or simply when you feel sluggish. Nutrition and hydration also matter. Maintaining stable blood-sugar levels through smaller, more frequent meals can improve reaction time, reasoning and memory. Staying hydrated and keeping caffeine intake consistent further supports sustained cognitive performance.
5. Make Your Workspace Work for You
Your physical environment has a powerful influence on productivity. Start by reducing background noise. While some people swear by it, research shows that most individuals’ ability to maintain focus suffers in noisy environments. Noise-canceling headphones or booking a quiet space can make a significant difference.
Lighting also matters. Both blue and bright white light have been shown to enhance alertness and cognitive performance, so adjusting your lighting can help. Reduce visual clutter by clearing your desk and immediate workspace. Finally, place frequently used items—your phone, pen or water glass—just slightly out of reach. Small movements keep your body engaged and can foster a more positive, expansive mental state.
Final Thoughts
We all want to get more done in less time—and with greater impact. This desire is especially strong during warmer months, when we feel the pull to spend more time outdoors with family and friends.
We hope these insights help you create conditions for more focused, effective work—so you can get more out of your day now and throughout the year.
