Most people are aware of Circadian Rhythms, which our bodies follow on a 24 hour cycle. But we also have what’s known as an Ultradian Rhythms, which are natural body cycles which occur at intervals of less than 24 hours.
So why is this important? Most people follow an Ultradian Rhythm cycle at intervals of roughly 90 to 120 minutes in length. What this means is that you will normally feel energized and productive for an hour and a half to two hours, and then suddenly feel drained and unfocused. Many of us try to work through these “down” periods, and pump ourselves up with caffeine and sugar.
Instead of fighting these natural cycles, we can become many times more effective and productive throughout the day if we listen to our bodies and work with these natural rhythms.
Try this simple solution (which I got from Eben Pagan) at the beginning of your day:
1. Get a small timer (under $10 from amazon) or use my favorite web based timer http://e.ggtimer.com/
2. Set it for 50 min, shut off all distractions such as phones, email, IM etc. and start the timer
3. Work in one focused block of time on your most important project. (Do not multitask)
4. When the timer rings, stop what you’re doing, set the timer for 10 minutes and start the timer
5. Take a complete rest break until the timer rings. Then set the timer for another 50 minutes.
6. Work for a second 50 minute focused block of time until the timer rings.
7. Set the timer for 30 minutes, eat a small meal, and completely chill out for the full 30 minutes.
8. At this point, you can run errands, check email and go about your normal day, or repeat the whole process for another cycle if you want to be super productive.
Bonus: At least once a day, either at mid day, or afternoon, try setting your alarm and taking a 20 min nap. (You don’t need to even fall asleep, but just lay down and keep your eyes closed for 20 minutes)
Try this out for a few weeks and I think you’ll be amazed at how much more productive you can be by following your body’s natural Ultradian Rhythms.
