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Is Productivity a mind Game ?

Writer's picture: steve birkssteve birks


Productivity is often viewed through the lens of external tools, techniques, and systems, some of which I’m sure you’ll have tried at some point. However, could the true driver of sustainable productivity lies within the workings of our own minds.

Could it be that there are two primary elements to understanding productivity


Internal Elements of Productivity

Think :


Motivation

Procrastination

Flow states

Focus Attention

Problem solving

Decision

Making Brainstorming


External Elements of Productivity

Think :

Apps and Software

Journals

Planners

Calendars

Productivity systems

Note taking


If you were to look at productivity as a flow chart, it would most likely start with the internal elements and end with the external elements, yet most of us are guilty of focusing on the ‘backend’ , the tools, systems and methodologies.

We know from earlier posts that the Network Neuroscience Triple network model can provide some answers to how we can leverage our brain to support improved productivity and reduced stress. Emerging research in network neuroscience suggests that understanding the brain's intrinsic motivational systems is just as crucial, if not more so, than mastering the extrinsic world of productivity apps and methodologies.

The key lies in the brain's "triple network model" - a framework that describes three interacting networks:


1. The Executive network, which handles external stimuli and task-oriented processing.

2. The Default network, which governs our internal mental processes, self-reflection, and Creative problem solving

3. The Salience network, which mediates between the Executive and Default networks, helping us determine what deserves our attention and focus.



Highly productive individuals are often able to strike a balance between these networks. They can effectively leverage external tools and techniques while also tapping into their intrinsic motivation, curiosity, and sense of meaning (intrinsic value).

In contrast, an overemphasis on external elements of productivity alone can lead to burnout, as it fails to nourish the deeper wellsprings of intrinsic motivation. Conversely, an exclusive focus on the internal elements without practical extrinsic productivity skills can result in a lack of structure, accountability, and tangible outcomes.

The most sustainable path to personal effectiveness lies in understanding and harmonizing both the extrinsic and intrinsic aspects of productivity. By cultivating self-awareness, intrinsic motivation, and a sense of purpose, while also mastering productivity tools and techniques, individuals can unlock their full potential and achieve lasting, meaningful results.



So going back to the title of the post ‘Is Productivity a mind game’?

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