Sharpen Your Mind: Nootropics for Productivity and Brain Health

In today’s startup world, productivity often feels like a race against time. But what if the real bottleneck isn’t your calendar? What if it’s your brain? More founders are realising that peak productivity doesn’t come from time management alone. It comes from cognitive optimisation. And that’s where the conversation around nootropics for productivity begins.

Nootropics, often called “smart drugs” or cognitive enhancers, are supplements or substances that aim to improve brain function. They are especially known for enhancing focus, memory, and mental stamina. But they’re just one part of a broader approach to brain health that includes sleep, nutrition, and stress management.

If you want to get more done without burning out, it’s time to think about your brain as the most important asset on your balance sheet.

What Are Nootropics, Exactly?

The term “nootropic” was coined in the 1970s to describe substances that enhance cognitive function without causing harm. Today, the term covers a wide range of products:

• Natural compounds like L-theanine, ginseng, and Rhodiola rosea
• Nutritional supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids and B vitamins
• Caffeine-based stacks that combine coffee with calming compounds for smoother focus
• Prescription medications like modafinil (used off-label, often with caution)

The goal is the same: to help you think more clearly, focus for longer, and resist mental fatigue.

Some nootropics are fast-acting and noticeable. Others work in the background, supporting brain health over time. For founders under pressure, this can make the difference between creative flow and cognitive crash.

Popular Nootropics Founders Swear By

Here are a few nootropics commonly used for productivity:

• L-theanine + caffeine: Found naturally in green tea, this combination offers focus without the jitters. L-theanine smooths out the spike from caffeine, creating a state of calm alertness.
• Rhodiola rosea: An adaptogen that may reduce mental fatigue and improve resilience under stress.
• Lion’s Mane mushroom: Supports neurogenesis and long-term cognitive function. Many users report better memory and clarity with daily use.
• Bacopa monnieri: Traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine, it’s been studied for its effects on memory and learning.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Crucial for brain health, especially if your diet lacks oily fish or plant-based fats.

While no supplement is magic, stacking the right ones with strong habits can significantly shift your mental edge.

Brain Health First: Lifestyle Matters More Than Pills

Before reaching for a capsule, smart founders look at the foundations of cognitive performance. Nootropics for productivity work best when layered on top of good brain hygiene:

• Sleep: Your brain cleans itself during deep sleep. Prioritise 7–9 hours with good sleep hygiene.
• Hydration: Even mild dehydration can impair focus and short-term memory.
• Nutrition: A diet rich in whole foods, leafy greens, healthy fats, and lean protein fuels your brain.
• Movement: Daily exercise boosts mood and cognitive performance by increasing blood flow and neuroplasticity.
• Mindfulness: Meditation isn’t just spiritual—it rewires your brain to resist distraction and stay calm under pressure.

Think of these like the software updates. Nootropics are more like plugins. Don’t skip the basics.

How to Build Your Own Productivity Stack

Interested in testing nootropics for productivity? Here’s how to do it safely and effectively:

1. Start with one change at a time. Whether it’s a supplement or a habit shift, track how you feel over 7–14 days.
2. Avoid stacking too much too fast. Combining multiple nootropics without understanding how they interact can backfire.
3. Choose quality products. Look for third-party testing and transparent ingredient sourcing.
4. Consult a healthcare professional. Especially if you’re considering prescription-based enhancers or have pre-existing conditions.
5. Keep a “cognitive journal.” Log your energy levels, focus, and mood to identify patterns and refine your stack.

Founder Routines That Centre on Brain Health

• Andrew Huberman, neuroscientist and host of the Huberman Lab podcast, uses morning sunlight exposure, cold showers, and magnesium glycinate in the evenings to support focus and sleep.
• Tim Ferriss has experimented with everything from keto diets to lion’s mane and transcranial stimulation—but often returns to basics like meditation and consistent sleep.
• Naval Ravikant, angel investor and founder-philosopher, focuses on mental clarity through fasting, exercise, and minimalist routines—emphasising that a calm mind is the ultimate edge.

These leaders understand: optimising the brain is a lifestyle, not a hack.

Optimise the System, Not Just the Output

Productivity isn’t about squeezing more from your time. It’s about operating at your sharpest with the least resistance.

By improving brain health and using nootropics for productivity with intention, founders can create a cognitive edge that lasts beyond the next deadline.

You don’t need to outwork everyone. Just outthink them, using a well-fuelled brain and a clearer mind.

Ex Nihilo Magazine is for entrepreneurs and startups, connecting them with investors and fueling the global entrepreneur movement.