With the many demands of our modern society, it’s not uncommon to feel that there are simply not enough hours in a day. We all want to be more productive, helping us to maximize time and efficiency. While this may sound easy to navigate, enhancing productivity takes some thoughtful consideration.
Although there is no magic “solution” to enhancing productivity, using the technology we have available, as well as science, can lend itself to finding new supplements and nootropics to support our brain function. Biohackers who seek to enhance their mental abilities and maximize output can explore these simple ways to biohacking brain function and support improved productivity.
Nootropics for Productivity
While there are many forms of supplements that claim to enhance productivity, nootropics are one of the most commonly used. These popular biohacking supplements seek to target the brain, enhancing important functions that are essential to productivity.
For example, utilizing nootropics may improve attention, motivation, creativity, and memory — all of which matter a great deal to enhancing cognitive function. Some examples of natural nootropics commonly used by biohackers include caffeine, l-theanine, and creatine.
You might have heard about creatine for its popular muscle growth benefits. However, research supports that this unique substance also can improve cognitive function, such as mental fatigue, attention span, and working memory.
Supplements for Optimal Brain Function
Boosting productivity starts with ensuring the brain has everything it needs to optimally function. Remember, our brains were not intended to multitask the way that our modern-era demands they do. Ensuring proper levels of vitamins will help your brain function optimally.
For example, Vitamin D and Vitamin B are important to prevent brain fog and enhance focus. If you suspect you may be deficient in these nutrients, getting tested bcan help you determine where you may need to add additional supplements. Not only are these nutrients vital to brain function, but they also play an important role in your overall longevity.
Omega-3s are also important to your brain function, helping to increase blood flow to the brain. Research supports utilizing Omega-3s to improve cognitive learning, memory, and general mental well-being. Some great sources of Omega-3s include fish, leafy vegetables, eggs, and flaxseeds. For those who do not consume enough of these foods in their diet, Omega-3 supplements are an option to ensure adequate levels.
Stress and anxiety can also impair your brain’s ability to focus and remain productive. Ensuring adequate levels of Magnesium, either from diet or supplementation, can help support stress management and boost concentration.
Incorporating Mindfulness Practices
The demands of everyday life can leave us feeling drained, focusing solely on how much we can accomplish rather than staying focused on the task at hand. If you’ve ever found yourself worried about the next thing on your to-do list, distracted from your current task, you’ll know exactly how taxing this can be on the brain. Ironically, as we try harder to stay more productive, we can often become less productive.
To combat this, biohackers have turned to mindfulness techniques, focusing on staying more engaged in the present moment. Practicing mindfulness techniques and obtaining the most benefit from them can take some time and patience. However, research suggests that people who regularly practice and utilize mindfulness efforts benefit from increased attention, decreased stress, and improved emotional intelligence.
Practicing mindfulness may look different from person to person. Some people prefer meditation, while others simply try exercising or yoga to become more mindful.
Taking Advantage of Tools for Productivity
Improving your productivity takes a multi-faceted approach. In combination with supplements and mindfulness practices, taking advantage of the tools available can help you form new habits and get into a routine. Some websites, such as Trello or Asana, can help support project management and keep you organized. In addition, time management tools such as working in 25-min intervals may help boost your overall productivity.
In conclusion, enhancing your productivity is not a quick fix. It is expected that you’ll need some trial and error to find the biohacking techniques that your brain likes the best. Be patient with yourself as you explore new ways to biohacking your brain function for better productivity.