Distraction is a significant factor in the modern workplace. With so much available to pull our attention away from the tasks at hand, it can be hard to focus. But what can you do to defeat distraction in your workday? Here are a few ways to avoid letting your mind jump from one thing to another and focus on being more productive.
Avoid Multitasking
Despite our culture’s obsession with multitasking, it’s not a natural function of the human brain. We’re not designed to do more than one task at a time, leading to less than optimal results. Instead, focus on prioritizing rather than trying to do too much all at once.
Eliminate Distractions
It can be easier said than done, but a critical factor in avoiding distractions in your workday is eliminating them. If you have a door to your office, close it. Put up a do not disturb sign if you want to focus on the task at hand. Shut down email and don’t open it again until you’ve reached a stopping point on your project.
Prioritize
Prioritization is not just multitasking in disguise. It’s about figuring out what is most important and getting it done. Every day, make a list of the tasks you need to accomplish. When you’ve completed a task, cross it off the list. This will give you a boost of satisfaction that can push you to the next task.
Do the Hardest Tasks First
We all do this. We start with the most manageable tasks so we can feel like we’ve accomplished something, but that leaves the most challenging job to the end when we’re tired and lack focus. Instead, prioritize the most complicated things first and get them done and out of the way. Then the other work you have to finish will feel that much easier.
Reward Yourself
One of the best parts of the human brain is how easy it is to reward it. We thrive on celebrations, even the smallest ones. When you accomplish something, reward yourself. It can be minimal, like a quick social media break or a grander gesture.
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