Hi Reader,
Are you ready to break free from distractions?
What if the solution is as simple as taking a nap, or even letting yourself procrastinate for a little while?
Last week, we explored how long it takes to regain focus after an interruption, and why, surprisingly, some distractions can even help us work more efficiently.
With your own personal touch and a little experimentation, we can all find ways to minimize distractions and boost our productivity.
This week, we’re diving into the topics of napping and boredom, as both can actually help you harness the power of a well-timed distraction. Let’s discover how stepping away for a bit can fuel your creativity and focus.
The power nap
I’m an expert at power napping, or as my dad used to call them, a “little snooze”. A 10-15 minute power nap in the middle of the day can keep me going strong for the rest of the day.
Studies have shown that a short nap can boost cognitive performance and make us feel more alert.
Added bonus, it’s not only a good distraction, but for me it helps me feel less distracted afterwards.
A little snooze is just right for a boost of energy. Power napping is actually a skill we can practice, and regular nappers see even more benefits than those who only nap when they’re exhausted.
Mastering the art of the short nap can take time to develop. Most of us are quite good at long naps, but these can leave us feeling groggy and unmotivated. A short power nap has the opposite effect and can get us energized for the rest of the day.
Here’s some tips on how to power nap:
- Prepare your environment: make sure your couch/chair/bed is comfortable, blinds are closed, you have a blanket and any brief reading material you might want.
- Tell yourself you are going to take a power nap.
- Set an alarm for 20-25 minutes to allow time to fall asleep.
- Relax and enjoy your nap
When your alarm goes off, you’ll wake up refreshed and ready to tackle the rest of your day. Happy power napping!
The helpful side of distractions
Believe it or not, distractions can help us!
In the article “Why You Need Boredom, Distraction and Procrastination in Your Life”, the author Thorin Klosowski argues that boredom and distraction can actually enhance brain function by fostering creativity. He writes, “Being distracted is a boon to creative thinking because it allows you to think outside the box.”
Distraction and procrastination may force us into a new way of thinking, due to shortened time frames to get something done. It turns out boredom, distraction, and even procrastination have real benefits.
I’ve written before about how boredom inspired creativity while growing up on a Northern Ontario island in the summer, resulting in my own DIY pinball machine.
Letting our minds wander can actually boost creativity and help you see new solutions, while embracing a bit of procrastination can lead to better decision-making. So, give yourself permission to be bored and let distractions spark new ideas!
And don’t be afraid to occasionally put things off. Finding this balance can help you feel less stressed, more creative, and even more productive in the long run.
Be distracted
The moral of the story is that sometimes, the best way to boost your focus and creativity is to allow yourself a brief distraction or a quick nap. Small breaks like these can refresh your mind, spark new ideas, and help you return to your work more energized and productive.
So, the next time you notice your attention drifting, don’t be too hard on yourself. Embrace these moments, experiment to find what works best for you, and watch how a little downtime can improve your day.
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Barbara Kephart, PMP
Founder and Chief Project Officer
Projects Pivot
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Ditching Distractions: Your own simple system
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