Many of us know the feeling. You get done with a Skype call with your boss and your brain is fried. Through the course of a 45-minute call, you discussed the new marketing campaign you're heading, the emerging markets you will be focusing on, and how you will gain market share. You nailed every answer, and feel confident about the new project. Unfortunately, you now have to write an important memo to your coworkers, which your boss wants out in an hour. Bad timing.
Scenarios such as the one I just mentioned require Brain Bandwidth, a unique brain capability that allows us to comprehend and react when complex thinking is necessary. We all have bandwidth, but it is of limited quantity. Brain bandwidth must be restored through activities you enjoy, such as time with loved ones, exercise, or whatever it is that relaxes your mind.
Since brain bandwidth is a limited resource, it is essential that you learn how to use it in the most efficient and productive way. Format your schedule so that tasks that are heavily taxing on brain bandwidth are followed by something a bit less complex, so you can give your brain a chance to recharge.
The next time you are doing your scheduling, take bandwidth management into consideration. By doing so you can maximize efficiency and boost productivity, so at the end of the day you have more time for the things you love!
