When you think about productivity, you might immediately think about time management strategies, to-do lists, or the latest productivity apps. While those are helpful, there’s one often-overlooked factor that can make or break your effectiveness: your mindset. Before you tackle any task, consider that mindset determines not only how well you do it, but also how efficiently you accomplish it.

A simple mindset shift can work wonders. Here’s how to “get your mind right” before you dive into your work. It’s worth that extra minute to set yourself up for success.

Take a Minute to Visualize Success

Before starting a task or project, take just one minute to visualize successful completion. Ask yourself: What does “done” look like? How will it feel to have accomplished this task? This quick exercise helps you clarify your goal and primes your brain for effective action. It’s like giving your mind a clear map to follow.

Think of it as a mini mental rehearsal. Athletes use this technique all the time. A basketball player will picture sinking a perfect shot before they actually take it. This practice can be just as powerful in the office or at home. Whether you’re about to write a report, clean out a cluttered space, or prepare for a presentation, imagining what success looks and feels like creates focus and intention.

The Power of “Walk-Up Songs”

To understand how mindset preparation works, let’s take a cue from baseball. When a batter steps up to the plate, their “walk-up song” plays—a piece of music carefully selected to pump them up, inspire confidence, and set the tone for their performance. This ritual is a cue that signals it’s time to focus, get in the zone, and bring their best effort.

This idea doesn’t just apply to professional athletes. My son Eddie, pictured here, who played baseball through college, (including helping his team make it to the NCAA DIII College World Series last season), used a similar approach when he pitched. Before each season, he chose a song that would play as he took the mound and threw his warm-up pitches. It varied year to year and it was his “theme” song. Some years, the song was fast-paced and aggressive; other years, it was more about steady confidence, still others, just about having fun. He selected what he needed to hear to perform at his best. His mindset was intentionally curated with the help of a few musical notes.

My Personal “Running Soundtrack”

I use this technique myself, not on the baseball field, but when I run. I created a Spotify playlist and titled it “Race.” I hand-picked each song because it matches the tempo at which I want to run and the energy I want to feel. The lyrics and beats help push me forward when my legs feel heavy.

What makes this playlist even more powerful is that I invited my grown kids, their significant others, and my husband to add songs they think will motivate me. When I hear a song they’ve chosen, I picture them cheering me on. Their musical choices inspire me, and knowing they’re invested in my success makes me feel supported. This mental boost helps me run faster and with more joy.

You can apply this same idea to your work. Whether it’s creating a “focus playlist” for deep work sessions or selecting a motivational song to play before a big meeting, music can be a powerful tool to get your mind right.

Other Ways to Get Your Mind Right

Music and visualization aren’t the only tools to help you shift into a productive mindset. Here are a few more methods you can use:

• Set an Intention: Before starting, state your purpose for the task aloud or in your head. For example: “I’m going to finish this report efficiently and with clarity.” This reinforces your focus.
• Clear Your Mental Clutter: Take a deep breath and consciously let go of distractions. If you’re worried about something unrelated, jot it down on a piece of paper to revisit later, then give yourself permission to focus solely on the task at hand.
• Affirmations or Mantras: Simple affirmations like “I’ve got this” or “I am focused and capable” can boost confidence and help you stay grounded.
• Physical Cues: Sometimes, a physical action like sitting in a particular chair, lighting a candle, or stretching can signal to your brain that it’s time to focus.

Small Mindset Shift, Big Results

These mindset techniques might seem small, but their impact is anything but. Just as a batter’s walk-up song can shift their energy or a minute of visualization can clarify your approach, getting your mind right before you start can dramatically improve your productivity. You’ll find yourself working with greater focus, ease, and efficiency.

So before you tackle your next task, take a moment to set your mind—and your success—in motion. That brief pause could make all the difference.

Do you have a song, a theme word, a playlist or visulaization exercise you use to get your mind right? Please share! And if you’re interested in knowing Eddie’s warm up songs over the years, or are curious as to my favorite selections from my “Race” playlist, just speak up; I’m happy to share as well.

If you’d like help working on mindset and building habits that can help get your mind right and boost your productivity, schedule your free no-risk Discovery Call. We’d love to see partner with you in your success!