Need to Get Things Done? Try Taking a Power Hour

If we asked you to identify the one hour of your day when you get the most done, would you be able to tell us? Even more interestingly, do you know how to get the most out of your so-called “power hour?” Let’s take a look at some of the theories about how you can make the most out of your most productive time in the workplace.

Let’s take a closer look at what makes the Power Hour so special, as Adrienne Herbert explains in her book,  Power Hour: How to Focus on Your Goals and Create a Life You Love.

What is the Power Hour?

Your Power Hour is the amount of time you spend on one specific task, honing in on it until it is done. This time is generally about one hour, which is why it’s called the “power hour.” Herbert makes the case for using it for personal projects, but it is just as applicable to the workplace or any other process that requires intense focus. You can use your power hour as an opportunity to maximize productivity, when your motivation, energy, and effort are all at their peak.

Herbert suggests that the power hour might manifest as the very first thing you experience in the morning, but you can of course make attempts to be more productive during other times of the day, depending on when you and your brain are most effective. Basically, the idea is to find the time when you don’t have other responsibilities to take care of. You can’t get your best work done, after all, when duty calls elsewhere.

Once you figure out the right time frame, you can start taking steps to make the most out of it.

Getting the Most out of Your Power Hour

Identify the Task

If you want to get the most out of your power hour, you will need to pick one task to focus on. This task should be one you would normally put off, so you’ll be able to use the extra motivation to get the task done far more efficiently than what you would normally.

Eliminate Distractions

Distractions get in the way of focused time, like your power hour. You should turn your phone on silent, turn off notifications, and set yourself as unavailable on your calendar.

Focus On Your Intentions

Preparing yourself mentally for your focus time will also help you make the most of it. Try running through a couple of mindfulness exercises to ensure that you are in the right headspace to get work done. Take some deep breaths and then settle in for your power hour.

Have you had any success with this strategy? If so, how would you recommend someone to go through this process? Have you considered technology that might aid in your ability to get work done? SCW can help. To learn more, reach out to us at (509) 534-1530.