In the realm of productivity hacks and time management strategies, one concept that has been gaining traction is that of “body doubling”, also known as “co-working.” While the term might sound peculiar at first, its effectiveness in enhancing focus and productivity is remarkable. So, what exactly is body doubling, and how can it revolutionize the way we work?
Understanding Body Doubling
At its core, body doubling is a simple yet effective technique where two individuals work side by side on their respective tasks without necessarily collaborating or interacting. This can be done in person, or virtually, over Zoom, Facetime, etc. The term originates from the field of psychology, where it’s often utilized as a therapeutic tool for individuals struggling with attention deficit disorders or anxiety-related challenges.
In the context of productivity, body doubling operates on the principle of external accountability and shared focus. By merely being present with another person who is also engaged in their work, individuals experience a subtle yet profound shift in their mindset, leading to heightened concentration and motivation. That’s why many folks, especially those who work from home, head out regularly to a local coffee shop or co-working space to get focused work done. Somehow, committing to working on a specific project at a specific time happens more readily when we leave our regular work space and surround ourselves with others who may be working, too!
The Benefits of Body Doubling
Accountability: One of the primary benefits of body doubling, or co-working, is the sense of accountability it fosters. When you commit to working alongside someone else, there’s an implicit agreement to stay focused and productive. The presence of another person serves as a gentle reminder to stay on track and resist distractions.
Reduced Procrastination: Procrastination often thrives in solitude. However, with body doubling, the presence of another individual creates a structured environment that discourages procrastination. Knowing that someone else is also working can alleviate the temptation to procrastinate and encourage you to stay disciplined.
Increased Focus: In a world filled with digital distractions and constant interruptions, maintaining focus can be a daunting task. Body doubling provides a sanctuary of concentration where individuals can immerse themselves in their work without succumbing to external disturbances. The shared commitment to productivity creates a conducive environment for deep focus and uninterrupted workflow.
Sense of Camaraderie: While body doubling primarily focuses on individual productivity, it also cultivates a sense of camaraderie and mutual support. Sharing the experience of striving towards common goals can foster a sense of community and belonging, which can be incredibly motivating and uplifting.
Enhanced Motivation: Working alongside another individual can inject a dose of motivation into your workflow. Witnessing someone else diligently tackling their tasks can serve as a source of inspiration and fuel your own productivity. Additionally, the positive reinforcement that comes from acknowledging each other’s progress can further bolster motivation levels.
How To Do It
Incorporating body doubling, or co-working, into your routine is relatively straightforward. It can be done either in person or virtually, depending on your preferences and circumstances. Simply find a colleague, friend, or family member who shares your commitment to productivity and agree on a mutually convenient time to work together. Set clear boundaries and goals for the session, and then dive into your respective tasks while providing each other with silent support and encouragement.
Your body doubling session area of focus doesn’t have to be centered on work. It can help you accomplish any number of tasks – commit to cleaning out your closet, filing paperwork, starting an art project, or anything else on which you may tend to procrastinate. Simply committing that time, opening up your phone or laptop and signing in to greet your co-working buddy, and getting to work is often enough motivation to get it done!
Set aside a specific time, decide how much time you will allot, and set a timer for check-ins with your partner every 30 minutes or so. This isn’t for socializing! The breaks are intended to give you a breather, get some inspiration and motivation from your partner, then re-focus yourself on your task.
In a world where distractions abound and the quest for productivity is ever-present, body doubling emerges as a simple yet potent strategy for enhancing focus, accountability, and motivation. By harnessing the power of shared commitment and collective energy, individuals can unlock new levels of productivity and achieve their goals with greater ease and efficiency. So, why work alone when you can double your productivity with a little help from a friend?
