A couple months ago, I was drafting a bylined article for a client. I’d tried to work on it at various times throughout the week, and it just wasn’t happening. Then, on Sunday morning, the writer’s block evaporated and I finished the article in under an hour — in my pajamas … on my living room couch. And, if I do say so myself, the article was really well written. In fact, I’m convinced that I couldn’t have written that article that well in the office. Phone calls, interruptions, distractions — all concentration killers.
Realizing that there are some projects that require uninterrupted concentration, I decided to institute “Work Away” at Geben. For at least half a day, once a week, each person is required to work from somewhere other than the office. Coffee shop, library, park, home — wherever they’ll be most productive. Each person can decide when to “Work Away” and what they’ll accomplish during that time. For some, they set aside that time for writing. Others use that time to plow through the “stragglers” on their to-do list. Sometimes, it’s when they brainstorm creative content strategy ideas for clients.
Where are you most productive? Imagine if you were encouraged to regularly work from there. Thanks to technology, there are few jobs that require you to be chained to your desk. Escape the office to discover a new sense of productivity.
Work Away … away from the office.
Who wants to test my theory? Let me know if “Work Away” helps you get more accomplished. And, what else do you do to improve your productivity?
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I think Work Away is a wonderful idea! I share my office with a colleague and sometimes it’s difficult to work in a noisy environment. During those times when I need it to be quiet to concentrate, I move to a different part of the office, away from the hubbub. I find that that helps me be more productive not only because the environment is quiet, but also because it’s a change of scenery, which (for me personally) makes a difference.
When I was a student last year, I went to the quietest library on campus to study for finals and work on important term papers. I can get most things done anywhere, but sometimes certain projects call for a certain environment to get them done.
If I can’t go somewhere else to work, I find that taking short breaks every hour or so helps me refocus and stay on track. It could be listening to music, reading a couple pages of a book I’m really into or just getting up and walking around the office.
I’m sure your staff is going to really enjoy this new policy. I know I would if my office implemented it. Hmm… Maybe I can convince my boss.
I think that’s an excellent policy.
Variety in itself can be a big motivator. I know that I’m as likely to get into a rut working from home all the time as I am when I’m in an office environment. I work best when I have the opportunity to vary my working practices during the week, and have the flexibility to choose the right place for the right type of work.
Great post, Heather. I agree with your thinking on this and I bet team Geben will be even better (if that’s even possible!) for it! I believe that switching up your environment can be inspiring and stimulating.
Love this idea, Heather. I feel like I get my best creative ideas when I’m outside the office: whether it’s after a long run or during a long drive.
Hello. impressive job. I did not expect this. This is a great story. Thanks!