Caffeine has been accepted by society a while now. It is normal to meet up for a coffee with friends in our leisure time; and in a work setting we attend meetings where coffee is freely available.

In part it has been accepted because it is seen as a valuable aid to help us be more productive and that it also keeps us alert.

But how true are these claims?

Does consuming caffeine really make us more productive?

• The Need To Be More Productive
• More Productivity or More Problems
• Natural Production
• Review
• Conclusion

The Need To Be More Productive

“Get it done!” – seems to be a phrase that embodies the dominant mindset prevailing in our societies these days.

In an effort to be recognized as a valuable and productive member of society and/or the workforce, many are constantly looking for that silver bullet that will put them ahead.

Competition is tough and in an effort to be on top we make sacrifices that are seen as acceptable.

Sleep is one of the more common sacrifices that people make. Working long hours and consuming caffeine is seen as a basic tenant of working towards success.

More Productivity or More Problems

Unfortunately the drive for more productivity doesn’t come cheap when consuming caffeine.

• Caffeine tricks the brain into producing more adrenaline, which can lead to exhaustion, which in turn encourages an increase in consumption.
  
• Exhaustion increases the chances of developing anxiety and panic attacks.
  
• Increased consumption of caffeine causes degradation in sleep quality, and therefore increases tiredness during the daytime.
  
• Over consumption of caffeine can lead to headaches, which are not conducive to productivity and may be responsible for an increase in absenteeism in the workplace.

Natural Production

There are many healthier ways to increase our productivity without having to resort to caffeine. A lot of them are to do with making better lifestyle choices.

• Moderate your caffeine consumption. 
  Unless you have a caffeine addiction, I am not suggesting completely giving up caffeine. Caffeine has its place. Just be aware that there are an increasing amount of food, beverages and medications that contain caffeine.
  
• Get more quality sleep. 
  Quantity and quality are what counts when it comes to sleep. It is possible to experience immediate improvements in productivity with this tip. A well-rested mind and body does wonders for your mood, creativity and productivity.
  
• Be more aware of when you are tired and make the appropriate adjustments. 
  Tiredness alarms like V-CAF subtly alert you when you are most likely to be tired so that you can take measures to wake yourself up and get more focused.
  
• Exercise more. 
  Whatever exercise you find comfortable that moderately raises your heart rate for between 25-60 minutes daily will have a positive impact on your productivity. How? By making your heart stronger and inducing deeper sleep cycles. Both of which can increase your focusing ability over time.

Review

In your drive to be more productive, protect your most valuable asset. You!

Make lifestyle choices that enhance your life and encourage you to grow:

• Reduce your caffeine dependency
• Get more quantitative sleep
• Be aware of your tiredness, use tools such as V-CAF
• Exercise daily

Conclusion

With the right mindset and healthier lifestyle choices there are no bounds on your productivity.

Choose to be in control and look after yourself.

You are worth it.