5 productivity myths debunked by science

You may have commonly heard such sayings as, “A cluttered desk is a cluttered mind,” or may have often thought to yourself, “I’d be more productive if I had more hours in the day.” While we typically turn to these sayings to make sense of our world and justify our productivity (or lack thereof), they may not be entirely accurate.

Last week, we shared with you why a messy desk can work. Expanding on this, Lifehacker highlighted 5 productivity myths:

• • Myth #1: More hours equals more work
• • Myth #2: Multitasking is necessary in today’s workplace
• • Myth #3: Procrastination is the enemy
• • Myth #4: You have to be clean to be organized or creative
• • Myth #5: Productivity is all about shoveling more busywork

Regarding the third myth, this is debunked by science as follows:

This 2011 study by researchers at The University of Limerick concluded that boredom is a healthy, normal mental state, and can actually push you towards more prosocial behavior—essentially, that it’s not something to be banished when you feel it. Similarly, This 2009 study in the Journal of Neuroscience highlights that daydreaming—which you only get to do during those so-called “non-productive” periods, is equally healthy, and actually can improve your focus when you get back to work. You don’t have to force your procrastination, either—let it happen naturally and don’t be ashamed of it, but do rein it in when you have to. [/note]

For more information on the other myths, please see the original article.