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The Productivity Process - Network Neuroscience

Writer's picture: steve birkssteve birks

The Productivity Process - Network Neuroscience



In this post we’ll introduce a simplified understanding of the productivity process from a Network Neuroscience standpoint. To do this I have adapted the D.I.M.E.S model (Mark R Waldman) and shown it as below visual representation.


The above is basically the Triple Network model previously covered, with the addition of the Emotional and Motivation Networks. It shows a complex interplay of cognitive processes that involve multiple brain networks. By understanding the role of these networks, we can unlock new strategies to boost our productivity and achieve our goals more effectively.

  1. Emotional Network: The productivity process often begins with a sense of playfulness and curiosity. This emotional network, centered in the limbic system, helps us approach tasks with an open and engaged mindset, fueling our motivation and creativity.

  2. Motivation Network: As we explore new ideas and possibilities, the release of dopamine in the motivation network reinforces our drive to pursue promising avenues. This network, plays a crucial role in sustaining our focus and determination.

  3. Default Mode Network (DMN): The DMN, often referred to as the "imagination network," allows us to consider a wide range of options and perspectives. By engaging this network, we can generate novel solutions and make more informed decisions.

  4. Salience Network (SN): The SN helps us identify the most valuable and relevant options to pursue, guiding us towards the most productive path forward. This network, which includes the anterior cingulate cortex and insula, acts as a filter, allowing us to prioritize our efforts effectively.

  5. Central Executive Network (CEN): Finally, the CEN, which includes the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, enables us to take decisive action and execute our plans. This network helps us maintain focus, overcome obstacles, and turn our ideas into tangible results.


An analogy could be :

  1. You hear someone playing the guitar, and you think that sounds great and seems fun, I wonder if I could learn to do that ? (EN)

  2. This sparks an interest to pursue further (MN)

  3. We start to think about it and dream or imagine what might be involved, lessons, equipment, cost, travel, failure, success, not enough time etc……. (DMN)

  4. You distill it down and decide to research the cost and duration of lessons (SN)

  5. You ‘act’ and search for lessons and make the enquiry (CEN)


By understanding the roles of these five networks, we can develop strategies to optimize our productivity. For example, we can cultivate a sense of playfulness and curiosity to engage the emotional network, use dopamine-boosting activities to fuel the motivation network, and leverage the DMN's creative potential through mindfulness practices. By aligning these networks, we can unlock our full potential and achieve greater productivity in our personal and professional lives.

By understanding how these networks operate, we can develop strategies to enhance our productivity. For instance, taking breaks can activate the DMN, allowing for creative insights to emerge. Similarly, focusing on specific tasks can engage the CEN, making it easier to solve complex problems.

In the next post we will look at more ways we can leverage the knowledge of Network Neuroscience to improve our productivity and reduce stress in the process.


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