Skip to main content

In our journey towards achieving greatness, the mindset we adopt plays a crucial role in how we approach tasks and maintain motivation. However you might have a self help guru tell you to “eat that frog”, “Set clear goals” or “Stay accountable” which might resonate, it might not.

When I was lecturing, there were different ways people learn, Visual, Auditory, Kinesthetic and Written. The material helped students understand, however understanding what inspires someone’s drive is key.  

Recognizing whether a Creative Momentum or Linear Progression mindset suits you best can enhance your productivity and overall satisfaction. It is important to note that aligning with one mindset over the other does not indicate poor work ethic. Rather, it highlights the diversity in how individuals approach their work and creativity.

Creative Momentum

Creative Momentum is a mindset that thrives on inspiration, spontaneity, and fluidity. It is characterised by a dynamic approach to work where creativity and productivity peak when one is deeply engaged and in the flow. Individuals with this mindset often seek environments and activities that stimulate their senses and allow for organic, non-linear progress. They may move between tasks based on their current interests and energy levels, finding motivation in variety and novelty. Creative Momentum is ideal for those who excel when they can follow their creative impulses and leverage bursts of inspiration to drive their work forward.

Key Features:

  • Flexibility in task management
  • Emphasis on inspiration and flow states
  • Preference for diverse and stimulating environments
  • Non-linear approach to progress

Linear Progression

Linear Progression is a mindset that emphasises structure, order, and systematic progress. Individuals with this mindset excel in environments where tasks are organised, schedules are adhered to, and goals are clearly defined. They prefer to work through tasks sequentially, focusing on one task at a time until completion before moving on to the next. This methodical approach helps maintain focus and efficiency, reducing the cognitive load associated with frequent task switching. Linear Progression is well-suited for those who find motivation in routine, predictability, and clear benchmarks for measuring progress.

Key Features:

  • Structured and organised task management
  • Emphasis on routine and schedules
  • Preference for clear goals and milestones
  • Sequential approach to progress

Creative Momentum

Set Intention

Start by setting a clear intention for what you want to achieve. This helps channel your focus in the right direction.

Deep Dive Sessions

Allow yourself to dive deeply into the areas that fascinate you and create a sense of excitement around the task.

Hyperfocus

Leverage periods of intense focus to dive deep into a project, allowing creativity to flourish without interruption.

Flexible time blocks

Loosely structured routine that accommodates fluctuating energy levels and allows for bursts of creativity.

Task Variety

Switch between different types of tasks to keep the mind engaged and prevent burnout from repetitive activities.

Creative Breaks

Take breaks that involve engaging in a different activity, like drawing or listening to music, to reset and recharge.

Output focused Micro-Deadlines

Set small, manageable deadlines with tangible outcomes to achieve a sense of accomplishment.

Peer Collaboration

Work with others who have complementary skills and perspectives, allowing for idea exchanges and synergy.

Design Inspirational Workspaces

Design a workspace that stimulates doing stuff, with objects and tools that inspire you.

Project-Based Learning

Engage in projects that requires skills you want to develop. Work on tasks that interest you and align with your passions

Cultivating Creative Flow

Identify and cultivate conditions that help you enter a state of flow, where productivity and creativity peak.

Positive Reinforcement

Celebrate small wins and progress to build confidence and maintain enthusiasm for your work.

Linear Progression

Task Prioritization

Prioritise tasks based on importance and deadlines to maintain a clear focus on what needs to be done first.

Goal Setting

Define clear, specific, and measurable goals to provide direction and motivation.

Time Management

Use planners and calendars to allocate time effectively and ensure steady progress on tasks.

Routine Establishment

Develop a consistent daily routine that supports productivity and minimise distractions.

Task Sequencing

Structured sequence of tasks built logically to maintain focus and a clear path to completion.

Mindfulness Practices

Incorporate mindfulness or meditation to improve focus and reduce stress, enhancing overall productivity

Progress Tracking

Keep a log or journal of your progress to stay motivated and identify areas for improvement.

Accountability Partners

Partner with someone to hold each other accountable for meeting deadlines and achieving goals

Design Structured Workspace

Create a workspace that maximises productivity with organised tools and minimal distractions.

Skill Development

Continuously work on improving relevant skills through courses, reading, and practice.

Structuring Productive Flow

Create a consistent routine and structured environment to achieve a state of focused productivity.

Positive Reinforcement

Reward yourself for completing tasks and reaching milestones to stay motivated.

Understanding whether Creative Momentum or Linear Progression aligns more closely with your natural tendencies can be a step in maximising your productivity and achieving your goals. Both mindsets offer valuable insights and strategies that cater to different approaches to work and creativity.

Embracing your unique productivity mindset doesn’t mean you have to fit into a specific category. Instead, it empowers you to harness your strengths, recognize your motivational drivers, and tailor your work environment and habits to suit your personal style.

By leveraging Creative Momentum, you can create stimulating environments that inspire and invigorate you, allowing for spontaneous bursts of creativity and innovation. On the other hand, adopting the principles of Linear Progression can provide the structure and routine necessary to maintain focus, efficiency, and steady progress.

Ultimately, the key is to blend elements from both mindsets as needed, finding a balance that keeps you motivated and productive. Whether you are navigating the fluidity of creative tasks or the orderliness of systematic work, acknowledging and embracing your productivity mindset will lead to greater satisfaction and success in your projects.

Thank you for reading, and if you found a part of this useful. Share so it can help others.

Also go come check out my channel on YouTube

See you over on YouTube
Aisjam

Author Aisjam

More posts by Aisjam

Leave a Reply