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Back Quote by Julian Treasure

“You are one-third as productive in open-plan offices as in quiet rooms. I have a tip for you: if you work in spaces like that, carry headphones with you, with a soothing sound like birdsong. Put them on, and your productivity goes back up to triple what it would be.” quote by Julian Treasure
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“You are one-third as productive in open-plan offices as in quiet rooms. I have a tip for you: if you work in spaces like that, carry headphones with you, with a soothing sound like birdsong. Put them on, and your productivity goes back up to triple what it would be.”

Julian Treasure

About This Quote

Source Interview: The Science of Sound, Julian Treasure, 2018

Open-plan offices reduce focus; headphones with natural sounds restore concentration and boost output.

In simple terms: Noise hurts work; headphones help.

Key Takeaway

Use headphones with calming sounds to improve productivity.

Themes

productivity environment focus

Mood

focused practical

Type

advice productivity

When to use this quote

  • office work
  • remote work
  • studying
  • creative tasks

Key Concepts

acoustics attention workplace design

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you notice a productivity drop in noisy settings?
  • What sounds help you concentrate?
A Different Perspective

Effectiveness depends on personal preference for sound; not everyone benefits.

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