Finding focus in a crowded room.

Is there such a thing as productivity by association?

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I recently watched a video, or maybe it was a blogpost I read, where the author said they were an introvert but found energy and focus in an ambient, extroverted space. He was referencing a coffee shop, or a library, or something similar where you are surrounded by people but aren’t necessarily required to talk or interact with them.

I couldn’t have put it a better way, myself. Though I grew up as a huge introvert especially around adults, I have turned out to be much more of a social introvert as I’ve grown into adulthood. I absolutely love meeting people over lunch or coffee to talk about literally anything. Whether they be new acquaintances, or long time friends, I get a certain boost of energy in hearing about their lives and discussing whatever problems or joys they are facing.

Put me smack-dab in the middle of a social party, however, and I still quickly move to the outskirts and find ways to get away. This even happens at family gatherings with people I’ve known forever. I end up catching my breath in a bathroom or make an excuse to walk to the car to get something.

I’ve always blamed small talk as the problem.

I hate it.

I’d rather meet a brand new person and dive straight into the Lord of the Rings theories than chat with three friends of a friend about what the weather is like or how long of a drive it was for them to get there.

I digress!

I LOVE working in public. Coffee shops, libraries, common areas, collaborative spaces, etc.

There is something about the energy of everyone around you working on various things and minding their own while you smack away at a keyboard. Maybe it’s some kind of weird productivity-by-association or something…

This is why I have recently been taking to the closest library to get work done while students, staff, and retired folk amble around the shelves, read the newspapers and magazines, or talk quietly over a computer screen.

I’m sure you have all tried it, but I urge you to find some time in your day (if your job allows it of course) to go to a coffee shop or library for an hour or two and so some work.

Don’t forget to bring headphones, make sure you have a tasty drink and snack, and find your own little nook or cranny to set up shop.

I’d be interested to hear if you feel more productive or more distracted in this kind of environment.

Pro tip: I like libraries a bit more than coffee shops as I don’t feel like I have to buy anything and it’s “free” thanks to our tax dollars!

Thanks for reading.