Freelancing Productivity: How to use the Focused Mode and Diffused Mode of Thinking to Get More Things Done

Our freelancing career can blossom if we can do more things in a given time. And the income jumps even more if we can solve bigger and harder problems for different clients. And the fact that it’s hard, it’s not something routinary that everyone can do.

I mean. How can you think of many creative ideas for your clients? It might be your problem as well. That’s where the Focused Mode and Diffused Mode of thinking comes into play.

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Understanding the Two Modes of Thinking

Before we can use these two modes of thinking, we must understand what they are. Focused-mode is quite apparent. It’s time you are intensely focused on a task without getting distracted from your environment. 

On the other hand, the diffused mode is when you let your mind wander freely — letting it think whatever comes to mind. Usually, this happens when you do something else like play a random game, take a shower, or walk at the park. 

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So Which Is Better? 

Now, you might be thinking that one is better than the other. Not exactly.

If you only used focused mode, there will be times that you will be stuck in a problem. And focusing more on something you can’t answer (at least now) will not magically give you the answer.

On the other hand, using only diffused mode is aimless and quite chaotic. You will not finish any task at all. The best way is to use both interchangeably.

Did you ever had that moment where you are focused on something, let’s say a puzzle, and you can’t seem to solve it? So you decided to sleep first. And magically, when you awoke, you now have the answer!  It is a situation where both the focused mode and diffused mode are working hand-in-hand. 

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Focused Mode First, Diffused Mode After

When you are focused on something, you utilize the prefrontal cortex, which stores short-term memory and current tasks. But sometimes, you can only do so much. 

When you rest and do something else for relaxation, your brain still works subconsciously on the problems you were too focused on. (Take note: You really need to be focused intensely for this to work.)

It connects your thoughts with other disciplines you know and allows creative solutions to come out. Your brain works in the background. So this rest period is quite productive.

Conclusion

With that, we can intentionally be mindful of our thinking modes. With the interchange between the two modes, we can make sure to deliver quality work to our clients.

I hope you solve more problems for your freelancing clients with this new skill! Good luck!