Sounds are all around us, from birds chirping to cars honking in traffic. But sometimes sounds are put together in purposeful ways to create a specific atmosphere or to express ideas or emotions. Such organized sounds are called music. Why you should vibe to good music at your workplace?
Music is a collection of coordinated sounds. People who make music creatively organize sounds for a desired result, like a Beethoven symphony or one of Duke Ellington’s jazz songs. It can be used to convey a whole range of experiences, environments, and emotions.
Music as a Tool of Productivity
I can not work straight from 9-5 without listening to music. I mostly become restless and sometimes lack concentration. In a major way, it has contributed to me in my day-to-day work life. You do not necessarily need to listen to loud music; it could be instrumental or any beat that sounds good to the ears.
With my love for music at work, I became aware of many genres that are available to listen to. If asked what is the importance of music at work I will tell you it makes one focus on the task given and makes you absorb information at a better rate.
Music stimulates creativity
music can be a major tool that helps you get the idea to reorganize an idea in order to resolve a pre-existing problem(s). And don’t ever forget that Music does lift the spirit and as well boost morale.
A recent study showed that music is a great real tool to boost productivity at the workplace. Another study reported in The Telegraph found that 88% of workers doing data entry, solving math problems, and proofreading produced more accurate work, and 81% worked faster when listening to music. With this said, maybe try listening to some music to boost your productivity. A study carried out by Dr. Sood at the Mayo Clinic showed that 15 – 30 minutes of listening to music can help someone regain concentration.
Of course, not all recommendations work for everyone but if you are like me or a music fan and you constantly find yourself distracted/or zoning out while working, one of my recommendations to you is music. Although it is good to know what works for you, so try a few different methods and see what you like. Have you tried the Pomodoro effect?
If you get distracted by your favorite songs try listening to white noise, instrumental, classical, Nature, etc. These genres can be good to zone out. Some iPhones also have this function inbuilt into the phone. If you are adventurous with music, Rock, Hip-hop, Alternative, Jazz, and Chant the task given could determine the genre you choose.
Music as a Stress Reliever
Upbeat music makes one feel more optimistic and positive, while slow music can quiet the mind and relax the muscles. Studies show that Mathematicians are accurate in solving problems when they listen to classical music. At the end of the day, all we want to do is to be stress-free.
Policy to follow when Listening to Music at work
You wouldn’t want to cause a nuisance at work so be considerate not to have a negative impact on others while listening to your music. Keep the following in mind so you don’t cross the line with anyone:
1. Not playing your music loudly while others are working
2. Listen with your headphone/earpiece
Some professions are considered dangerous and therefore listening to music is not safe or advisable. It could endanger you and your colleagues. For example, if working at an industrial company, it is advisable not to play music while working. If your environment is not safe, it will be difficult to call your attention because you are distracted by music.
Disclaimer: Please note that while listening to music can have positive effects on productivity and stress reduction, it may not be appropriate or allowed in all work environments. Please check with your employer or supervisor before using music as a tool in the workplace. Remember to make use of headphones when listening to music in shared spaces.