I've long loved background music to enhance my workflow but realised that certain rhythms can maintain or divert my concentration. According to a study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology, applied, background music can significantly affect cognitive performance and mood during tasks requiring sustained attention (Jones & Yarbrough, 2018). That's where soundtracks come in - the standard of music tailored to complement your mood while engaged in visual tasks.
Now, I've curated options that support my focus needs.
Take "Dune" and its mix of different cultural sounds. When working remotely for an international organisation from my developing island home, dealing with political issues similar to those in the movie, listening to its music enhances my focus without losing my sense of place. Research by North et al. (2017) suggests that music with cultural relevance can enhance feelings of connectedness and engagement with one's environment, potentially improving productivity in tasks that require immersion in a specific context.
Then there are the soundtracks from my treasured films, such as "Interstellar," "The Lord of the Rings," and "The Day After Tomorrow," which stimulate a warm nostalgia that keeps me in a positive headspace. A study conducted by Li and Yang (2018) found that nostalgic music can improve mood and increase motivation, leading to enhanced performance on cognitive tasks.
Low percussion backgrounds with extended, non-repetitive passages suit me best, as they provide a steady foundation without jarring interruptions. While flutes are fine, I've noticed that horns can more readily disrupt my concentration. This aligns with findings from a study by Thompson et al. (2019), which showed that certain musical elements, such as tempo and instrumentation, can impact cognitive processing and task performance.
For those moments when I need to maintain a steady flow without distractions, early reggae dub beats - subdued and distorted - are my companion, seamlessly blending into the background. According to a survey conducted by the British Academy of Sound Therapy (BAST), reggae music, characterised by its rhythmic patterns and relaxed vibe, is often associated with reduced stress and improved focus in work environments.
Since I started this approach, my productivity has improved. Working from home can sometimes feel monotonous, but discovering a new soundtrack brings refreshing energy into my day without demanding too much time or attention. Most recently, stumbling upon the soundtrack of the first Transformers movie lifted me out of a slump, proving the influence of music in the workspace.
If you're easily distracted and looking for a solution, I recommend exploring film scores and movie soundtracks as background "office music" to get through your task list.