Distractions, distractions — the world we’re living in at this day and age is full of them. Most of which can be found on your handheld devices. How many times do you catch yourself unlocking your phone to check on a notification? If you find that you’re having a difficult time ignoring updates during work hours, then you literally have a problem in your hands. Distractions lead to procrastination, which in turn, leads to decreased productivity. Here’s what you can do about it:
- Turn off those pesky notifications.
You don’t have to keep the notifications coming throughout the day but make sure they’re not on during work. A short update may seem like a mere momentary distraction but it can disrupt your thoughts for a long while. - Stick to a routine.
Deciding what to do, how to do it and when are the moments in between getting things done that you can save by sticking to a routine. Use that extra time to maximize your productivity instead. With a routine, you can automatically start doing without the unnecessary pondering. - Make a list of priorities.
Thinking of everything you have to do in a day can be overwhelming if you don’t break it down. List your tasks in order of urgency and importance as a tactic to avoid getting overwhelmed and distracted. - Multitasking isn’t an option.
Contrary to popular belief, multitasking can be detrimental to productivity, accuracy and creative thought according to MIT neuroscientist Earl Miller. Focusing on one thing at a time gets things done is the most efficient way to handle work. - Take a break.
You might think you’re working non-stop when you don’t take a pause to regenerate but you might be doing the opposite. Not only that, everyone needs a breather every once in a while. Don’t forget to take one!
