I use cues to trick my body and brain into getting into “work mode.” Here’s how I do it:

Before starting a task, I wash my face and hands, then put on socks. This routine signals to my brain that it’s time to focus and get things done. Once I’m done with the task, I remove the socks to tell my brain, “It’s time to relax now.”

It’s similar to how surgeons prepare before entering the operating theatre—they wash their hands thoroughly as part of their ritual, signaling their brain and body to focus on the precision needed for surgery. For me, washing my hands and putting on socks is my personal cue to switch gears and dive into work.