Will listening to music improves productivity?

Music is considered as one of the best forms of recreation as it brings excitement in our life. This is the reason why we see people with earphones in bus, auto and even when we are walking.

We also hear music in all places like supermarkets, malls, clothing stores, gym etc. It is entangled with us everywhere we go. Does it really have an impact in our daily activities? Especially in workplace will listening to music improve productivity?

Music at Work:

Listening to music has become an optimal way to deal with daily routine. We use music to set the tone of our environment and our mood, whether we’re unwinding after work or throwing a party. But in an age, many of us spending our time in computer screen, music has become a mode of escape from outside distractions or dull tasks. So how useful is music when it comes to focusing on your work?

Not all offices allow music, with or without headphones. Many companies have policies for this kind of activities. Many of us like to listen to music at work. For few people, it is a source of motivation and helps to improve their concentration level. There is also a section of people who think listening to music is a distraction and hampers their productivity. Few researches say listening to music can be beneficial at work, depending upon the kind of work you are doing.

Music for repetitive tasks: The effect of music on a listener’s productivity at the workplace depends on the level of involvement that the task he/she is engaged. Studying analytics and copying data in an excel sheet will require different gravities of attention. Since, the former one requires more attention, it is good to take a break in between your task and tune to some good music. When the task is clear and repetitive in nature, music is extremely helpful.

Music for noisy environment:

A noisy workplace is a productivity dampener. If you hear people talking around you everywhere, it can be really distracting and annoying for one who requires deep concentration to perform. In such a situation, music will be the best remedy. And these people can improve their productivity by listening to music that soothes the soul and ears.

Music improves creativity:

Music has a very powerful impact on the brain. It alters mood, mental and physical performance. Plugging in headphones can help you to work faster and more productively. This will also release a hormone called Dopamine, which is normally called as pleasure chemical. In turn, it results in thinking out of the box, better ideas and creates good impression among the bosses.

Choosy about the choice of music:

It is very important in choosing what type of music you want to listen. Listening to new songs when performing task is counterproductive. This is because your mind will start concentrating on the lyrics of the song. Lyrics can distract, as they cause you to focus on the message of the song and interrupt your train of thought.

It is better to hear our own playlist which you already know. While listening to familiar music your brain wouldn’t make an extra effort to know the song. It is better to use instrumental music over songs.

Dos and Don’ts while listening music:

When it comes to listening to music at work, we have to check certain Dos and Don’ts. Here is the checklist!

Dos:

• Keep the volume low enough to hear the voice of another person
• Take off your headphones from time to time to give your ears a break
• When someone approaches you, be quick in responding them
• Instead of harsh and high pitched music, listen to soothing music like classical

Don’ts:

• Don’t distract your colleagues by singing, humming or lip-syncing
• Don’t abuse the privilege. Start listening to music when the office isn’t busy or you’re doing solo work.
• Above all control your groove

Conclusion:

The benefits of listening to music vary from individual to individual. If you are not one of those who enjoy listening to music while working, research suggests to listen uplifting music before starting your work. Either way, music enhances our lives.