To get the most productivity out of your day, use the 52-17 method

Productivity is a challenge for us all

On May 1, 1926 Ford Motor Company made history by offering their automotive workers a 40-hour work week. A few months later, they extended the policy to their offices. Their reasoning was to get more productivity when their workers were on the job. The employees were expected to put in their full effort while they worked. Many manufacturers followed Ford’s lead, and the 40-hour week became standard.

As an entrepreneur, you might wish for that 40-hour week. Most small to medium sized business owners work way more than just forty hours. It can seem like you’re always on duty, checking email or on call to be available for problems that come up with clients during off hours.

Sometimes, it might even seem like you aren’t getting anywhere

You’re just spinning your wheels. You might not realize it, but that schedule is killing your efficiency and productivity when you’re working. A person’s brain isn’t supposed to handle that many hours of work.

Instead of putting so much time in the office, use the 52-17 method of being productive.

The study behind the 52-17 method

DeskTime, a productivity app, studied the habits of the most productive employees who used their app. They found that the top 10 percent of workers who got the most done worked for 52 minutes, giving it all they had, then took a 17 minute break away from work. Not just the “I’ll quick check my Facebook” or “I’m just going to run to the bathroom” break. It was a full 17 minutes doing something non-work related.

The secret to working better is working smarter. Work with purpose for a short burst of time, then let your mind take a break. Instead of looking at your work day as a marathon, think of it as seven short sprints. Your body will thank you too. Research shows that your body is not meant to sit all day. Getting up every 52 minutes gives your back and neck time to stretch and rejuvenate while you’re away from your desk. Make a commitment to your health, your family, and your business. Learn to take a breather every so often.

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