Unusual Productivity Hacks: Coworking Edition
When you think of productivity tips, the same advice often comes up: “Make a to-do list,” “Take regular breaks,” or “Eliminate distractions.” But coworking spaces, with their unique environments, offer opportunities for unconventional productivity hacks that you might not find elsewhere. Here are some unexpected ways to supercharge your workday while enjoying the coworking vibe.
1. Desk Hopping for a Fresh Perspective
One of the biggest perks of coworking spaces is the variety of seating options. Stuck on a problem? Change your location. Moving from a cozy sofa to a high-top table or switching from a shared desk to a quiet corner can spark new ideas. Studies show that altering your physical environment can improve creativity and cognitive flexibility.
Pro Tip: Use different spots for specific tasks—creative brainstorming in a lounge, focused work at a private desk, and meetings in collaborative areas.
2. The Coffee Shop Hack: Eavesdrop Productively
Coworking spaces often have a low hum of conversation. While this might seem distracting, research has shown that moderate background noise can actually boost creative thinking. If you’re brainstorming or writing, the buzz of your fellow coworkers can be the perfect backdrop.
Pro Tip: Noise-canceling headphones are great for deep focus, but don’t underestimate the power of ambient noise for creative tasks.
3. Use the “Two-Minute Networking Rule”
Set a timer to spend just two minutes introducing yourself to someone new in the space each day. Coworking spaces are full of talented individuals with unique skills, and a quick conversation might lead to unexpected collaborations—or even just a helpful new perspective on your work.
Pro Tip: Keep a simple icebreaker ready, like, “What are you working on today?” or “Have you tried that new café nearby?”
4. Micro-Breaks with a Twist
You’ve probably heard about the Pomodoro Technique, but in a coworking space, you can enhance it with social micro-breaks. After a 25-minute work session, chat with someone in the communal area or take a quick walk around to reset your focus. These small interactions can refresh your mind and keep you energized.
Pro Tip: Pair up with a coworking buddy and check in after each work sprint to hold each other accountable.
5. Leverage “Creative Corners”
Many coworking spaces have areas designed for relaxation or creativity, like game rooms, art walls, or meditation nooks. Taking five minutes to sketch, meditate, or even play a quick game can help you break out of a productivity slump.
Pro Tip: Don’t feel guilty about using these spaces—recharging creatively is just as important as powering through tasks.
6. Create a “Reverse To-Do List”
At the end of the day, list everything you accomplished rather than focusing on what’s left undone. Shared workspaces often make it easy to feel like you’re falling behind when you see others bustling away. A reverse to-do list helps you acknowledge your progress and stay motivated.
Pro Tip: Share your reverse to-do list with a coworking peer to celebrate wins together.
7. Experiment with Coworking “Power Hours”
Coworking spaces often host events or offer peak energy times when everyone is in the zone. Ride that wave by scheduling your most demanding tasks during these high-energy periods. The collective focus can be contagious!
Pro Tip: Ask the community manager about popular times for focused work to sync your schedule with the space’s vibe.
Unlock the Potential of Coworking Spaces
Coworking spaces aren’t just places to sit and work; they’re dynamic environments designed to enhance productivity and creativity. By embracing these unusual productivity hacks, you can make the most of what coworking has to offer.
Try these tips the next time you’re in your coworking space—and don’t be surprised if you accomplish more than ever before!
What are your favorite coworking productivity hacks? Share them in the comments below!