Body Doubling: Virtual Co-working
Co-working remotely
Table of Contents
Scope
Intended Audience: All remote workers, everywhere
This article will explain what body doubling is, why it works, and how to do it productively.
Requirements
- Have a co-working platform
- teams/zoom/skype/ect
Troubleshooting
When body doubling or co-working enter the space with clear boundaries within yourself to maintain focus. Not everyone present will remain on task. Be mindful and protect your productivity as well as your vibe!
Citation: https://www.myndlift.com/post/how-body-doubling-improves-productivity
What is Body Doubling?
The practice of body doubling, working alongside others to enhance productivity, has been increasingly popularized as a productivity hack, particularly with the surge of remote work.
It was crafted to increase the focus and motivation during the workday for individuals with ADHD. But this technique benefits all who adopt it. A shared work environment can mitigate distractions and procrastination often associated with solitary work. Observing others diligently focused on their tasks can anchor you to be more present and engaged, effectively boosting productivity.
Why Body Doubling?
-
External Pressure and Accountability
-
Body doubling may introduce an element of external pressure. In other words, knowing that someone else is present, even if they're not directly observing your work, might motivate you to stay on task.
- Example: For college students adding a study partner when prepping for an upcoming exam can help improve focus by increasing external pressure. Knowing that you need to study with someone else, take notes, or ask questions might bring out a sense of accountability.
-
Body doubling may introduce an element of external pressure. In other words, knowing that someone else is present, even if they're not directly observing your work, might motivate you to stay on task.
-
Employee Satisfaction and Motivation
- Body doubling might also increase employee satisfaction. Research suggests that companies adopting co-working or body doubling approaches may see a boost in employee satisfaction and well-being. Research repeatedly shows that higher job satisfaction can lead to less absenteeism, greater productivity, and a lower turnover rate. Therefore, co-working or body doubling approaches may benefit organizations in these ways.
-
Community and Collaboration
- Research demonstrates that co-working spaces can foster a sense of community and support among workers. Evidence suggests that a co-working space can provide various benefits, such as an improved work-life balance, increased sense of autonomy, and reduced social isolation.
How to be Productive while Body Doubling
Body doubling can be a powerful tool that boosts productivity, reduces procrastination, and fosters a sense of community. It might be particularly beneficial for individuals with ADHD, helping them overcome common challenges such as lack of motivation and procrastination.
But communicating boundaries is critical. If you are in a space used for co-working and a member is distracting or off task, be respectful & set boundaries. Or leave the space to focus and return when you begin the next task. Find your happy zone. Avoid isolation and reach out to co-workers on other teams to build bonds.