Eliminate Distractions: A Productivity Series for Busy Professionals

There are few things that block productivity with some being in and out our control. The one that is in our control is distractions. When you’re distracted you cannot concentrate and focus properly.

You just won’t get things done. And even if you do accomplish something, it can be stressful and frustrating.

There are two key points which you should keep in mind when you are planning to reduce the distractions in your environment.

1. You must be able to focus on one task at a time

2. You do not want to be distracted by things around you, then you must be able to block out those things.

When you reduce distractions within your ability, you will be productive and get more done.

Find Your Distractions 

You need to know what is distracting you. Are you spending too much time on social media? Do you find yourself looking at your phone or computer when you should be working?

Stop Being Distracted

If you are distracted by phone calls, social media, or other distractions, you need to remove them. You need to be able to focus on your task without interruption.

Cut distractions that are taking away from your productivity. If you find yourself using Facebook, Twitter, or other websites during work hours, take a break and go somewhere else. If you find yourself looking at your phone while working, put it away. If you find yourself wasting time on the Internet, set a timer for 15 minutes and get back to work.

How to manage distractions

Tools such as an Evernote notebook or a whiteboard can help you focus on your tasks.

Set up a system: If you want to remove distractions, set up a system that works for you. If you want to keep your phone on vibrate, turn it off when you begin working on a task. If you want to keep your computer out of sight, put it in a different room.

How to be productive when you are distracted

 Schedule time to end distractions. Set a specific time to use social media or spend time on your phone. Don’t use the Internet as a crutch to get through your day.

The good news is it does not require much time or effort to consider how your habits are affecting your productivity and begin to adjust them accordingly.

Avoid Multitasking to Eliminate Distractions

If you are like most people, multi-tasking has become a part of your everyday life and your everyday vocabulary. There may be several things which you need to do in one day, and you may be doing them simultaneously.

If you overdo multi-tasking, there can be two consequences.

• You might not get everything done 
• You might spread yourself too thin and not have good results. 

The same can be said about distractions. 

Know Your Habits so You Can Improve Your Productivity

Productivity can only be improved by becoming more efficient, by analyzing your habits.

Some people can work with background noise on, people talking around them, or prefer to have the tv on for background noise.

You may even find that you can get the job done better, faster, and more effectively, without any distractions at all.

Experiment with one of the background distractions, and you may find that one of them help your concentration and focus.

While finding whatever works for you is easy if you work on your own, it can be a little more complicated if you work with others. 

Avoiding Distractions When You Work in the Office

For many people, the office is a place of chaos, where there’s never enough time to get everything done. If you work at a desk or a computer, it’s easy to lose track of time.

We all know that distractions can be a real problem when we’re trying to focus. Unfortunately, there’s nothing we can do about that—but there are things we can do to minimize distractions and help us get more done.

Simple and Easy Tips for Minimizing Distractions and Keeping Your Workspace Distraction Free

• Use headphones or keep your office door closed
• Make sure your workspace is clutter-free
• Control your email
• Use a time tracker
• Block time

List of Distractions

This list of distractions is to help you find your distractions so you can focus on them to eliminate. What may be a distraction to you may not be a distraction to someone else.

You can turn off some or all of these distractions and see if you are better able to focus on the task at hand.

• Social media
• Emails
• Phone Calls
• Phone notifications
• Work interruptions
• The Internet
• Instant Messaging or DMs
• Television
• Music
• Other people
• Pets
• Work
• Other People’s Problems
• Your Own Problems

In conclusion, I’m not sure if there’s a secret to productivity.

However, I do know that it’s hard to be productive when you’re distracted. We all have to deal with distractions, but if you can minimize them, you can be more productive. 

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Goal Setting Guide
Ultimate Guide to Choose the Right eCommerce Platform
Productivity Strategies for Busy Professionals