Having a hard time focusing? Need to concentrate on a complicated project? The solution might be as simple as listening to different sounds while you work—and specifically the right kind of sounds. Research shows that different music and sounds have different effects on our brains. Some music and sounds are ideal for calming your mind while others help pep you up.

Wondering how to tailor your Spotify playlist for work? Writer Amy Rigby has explored the research on which sounds are best for deep working. In this issue of Promotional Consultant Today, we share her findings and give ideas on playlists that can help you amp up your productivity.

Classical. When you want to boost your brainpower, cue up some Mozart or Beethoven. Studies show that classical music can improve short-term spatial-temporal reasoning performance. All you need is just 10 minutes to reap the benefits.

Coffee shop sounds. Rigby points out research that shows how a medium level of ambient noise from a coffeehouse or restaurant can improve creativity. Interestingly, low or high levels decrease it. If you’re in a silent office, your brain will respond to the novelty of background noises of conversations and the occasional clattering of coffee cups.

Ambient sounds. When you want to concentrate, the relaxing beats and soothing tones of instrumental ambient music can be the answer, says Rigby. Whether you opt for slower beats or instrumental easy listening, ambient sounds can help you get focused on deep work.

Upbeat tracks. Just as high-energy music can get you pumped up for exercise, the same is true in the workplace. Rigby says that a study from the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation found that listening to upbeat music while pedaling on a stationary bike boosted participants' exercise intensity. The faster the music, the faster they pedaled. When you want to feel energized and tackle your to-do list, turn up the happy beats.

Nature sounds. Forest bathing may not be realistic in your workday. However, you can still reap the benefits of strolling beneath the trees. Simply listening to nature sounds like flowing streams and chirping birds is enough to soothe your nerves and help you dive into your big projects.

Pink and white noise. Rigby notes that noise colors refer to the power spectrum in a sound. Both white noise and pink noise can be beneficial at work. Research has shown that listening to white noise, which is a little more high-pitched than pink noise, may enhance the ability to learn new words. Pink noise can also help with memory and keep you on task.

Music and sounds aren’t just background noise—they can give you a productivity boost and put you in a better mood. The key is to think about the task at hand. When you want to concentrate, ambient sounds may be best. If you need an energy boost, upbeat music is the way to go. Instead of working in silence, try turning up the volume the next time you want to get more done.

Compiled by Audrey Sellers

Source: Amy Rigby is a writer and marketing consultant who contributes articles for the Trello blog.

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